Clinically reviewed by Dr. Abhishek Parashar, Specialist Orthodontist — NOA Dental Clinic Dubai Masters in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics | Second Masters in Aligner Orthodontics, University of Turin, Italy | AAO & WFO Registered | Last reviewed: April 2026 NOA Dental Clinic — MOHAP Licensed since 2005
Adult orthodontics is the use of dental appliances — clear aligners, ceramic braces, lingual braces, or self-ligating systems like Damon — to correct misaligned teeth and jaws in patients over 18. The clinical principles are the same as in adolescent orthodontics, but the considerations are different. Adult bone responds more slowly to tooth movement, treatment timelines tend to be longer, and the social and professional context of wearing visible appliances often shapes which treatment is right.
At NOA Dental Clinic, more than half of our orthodontic cases are adults — a reflection of Dubai’s expat population, many of whom are seeking treatment they did not have access to earlier in life. One popular option among adult patients is Invisalign in Dubai — a clear aligner system that is discreet and can be removed for eating and cleaning, though aligners require strict compliance to be effective.
The benefits of orthodontic treatment in adult patients tend to cluster around four areas:
Clear Aligners: Removable, nearly invisible trays that gradually shift teeth into place. They are particularly suited to adults whose work or social context makes visible braces impractical, and to patients with mild-to-moderate alignment needs. They only work when worn at least 22 hours per day, so they may not suit patients who would prefer a non-removable option.
Ceramic Braces: Fixed braces with tooth-coloured brackets that blend with the teeth, making them less noticeable than metal braces. They suit adults who need fixed appliances for more complex cases that aligners cannot fully address, but want a less visible option than traditional metal braces.
Lingual Braces: Placed on the inner surface of the teeth, these braces are hidden from view, offering an aesthetic advantage. They require specific technical skill to fit and adjust, and suit adults whose visibility concern is the primary consideration.
Damon Clear Braces: Self-ligating braces with clear brackets that blend in with your teeth for a more subtle look. Designed with a sliding mechanism instead of elastic ties, Damon Clear braces reduce friction and may lead to fewer office visits, making them a comfortable and efficient choice for adults seeking a low-profile orthodontic treatment.
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Dr. Abhishek Parashar
Two concerns come up consistently in adult orthodontic consultations: treatment duration and visibility.
Treatment duration for adult cases typically ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on complexity. Mild cases — including most relapse-correction cases where the teeth have shifted slightly after previous orthodontic work — often complete in under 12 months. More complex cases, particularly those involving bite correction or significant rotations, take longer. Self-ligating systems like Damon often complete more quickly than conventional braces because they require fewer adjustment appointments and apply continuous force between visits.
Visibility is the second concern, and the available options now mean it rarely needs to be a deciding factor. Clear aligners are nearly invisible. Lingual braces are completely hidden from view. Damon Clear 2 brackets are tooth-colored and significantly less noticeable than metal. The choice between these reflects case complexity and patient preference rather than a forced trade-off between aesthetics and treatment.
A third concern that adult patients raise less openly is the social or professional context of being seen with braces — particularly in client-facing roles. This is usually less of an issue than expected. Most adults notice their own braces far more than colleagues or clients notice them. But where it does matter, the discreet options exist for exactly this reason.
The American Association of Orthodontists — the international professional body for orthodontic specialists — publishes patient-facing information on adult orthodontic treatment, including detail on treatment options, expected outcomes, and current research. AAO membership is one of the credentials Dr. Abhishek Parashar holds.
A consultation with Dr. Abhishek Parashar at NOA Dental Clinic in Jumeirah Lake Towers or near the World Trade Centre will assess your specific case — the position of your teeth, your existing dental work, and your treatment preferences — and recommend the option that fits. The consultation includes a clinical examination, a discussion of which treatment options suit your case, and an estimate of treatment duration. To book, call 052 129 0431 or message WhatsApp +971 56 321 1745.
Reviewed by Dr. Abhishek Parashar, Specialist Orthodontist at NOA Dental Clinic, Dubai.
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