Dr Merin Abraham, CEO and specialist orthodontist at Faces & Braces, is leading a distinctive approach to orthodontic care in Dubai by emphasizing facial aesthetics alongside dental treatment. Founded to address a gap in the market, the clinic focuses on customized therapies that prioritize how orthodontic outcomes integrate with patients’ overall facial features rather than only straightening teeth.
“We built the clinic on three pillars – precision, aesthetics, and empathy,” Dr Abraham explained, noting that treatments ranging from clear aligners to self-ligating braces are tailored to suit both dental needs and facial profiles. This philosophy has garnered significant recognition, with Faces & Braces receiving three major awards in 2026. These include the Orthodontic Clinic of the Year 2026-27 at the Prestige Middle East Awards, as well as the Specialist Orthodontic Clinic of the Year 2026 – UAE and the Patient-Centred Dental Care Excellence Award 2026 – UAE at the MEA Business Awards.
Dr Abraham highlights the clinic’s focus on “designing faces,” emphasizing that a smile’s harmony with a person’s profile and confidence underpins the patient experience, particularly among its predominantly female clientele. Women, including professionals, brides-to-be, and mothers, represent about 70 percent of the patient base. Trust in the clinic is bolstered by its luxury interiors, adherence to international sterilization standards, and transparent pricing structures.
A key aspect of Faces & Braces’ approach is preventive orthodontics, with Dr Abraham encouraging children to receive their first orthodontic assessment by age seven. Early check-ups permit monitoring of jaw growth and may reduce the need for extractions or more complex treatments during adolescence. “A 10-minute growth check today can save two years of braces later,” she advised, underscoring the benefits of timely intervention.
As a female entrepreneur in a field often dominated by men, Dr Abraham acknowledges the challenges but credits Dubai’s environment for enabling her to establish leadership founded on both clinical expertise and business acumen. She encourages women to invest in their facial health for lifelong confidence and to view their smile as an essential element of personal and professional presentation.
“Your smile is your best business card,” Dr Abraham said, emphasizing that it is never too late for women to seek orthodontic care tailored to enhance both dental health and facial aesthetics.