Nasoalveolar molding appliance: a necessary pre-surgical treatment method for congenital cleft lip and palate

Cleft lip and palate (CLP) are among the most common congenital defects in the craniofacial region, significantly impacting aesthetics, function, and the psychosocial well-being of both patients and their families. Particularly in cases of wide clefts, the anatomical structures on either side of the cleft are often severely deficient and deformed, complicating surgical procedures. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment, especially with the Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM) appliance, has gained increased attention recently due to its ability to improve the position and shape of facial structures, facilitating optimal surgical outcomes. The goal of pre-surgical NAM treatment is to reduce the width and enhance the symmetry of the structures on both sides of the cleft, including the lip, nose, and alveolar ridge. Given its benefits, NAM treatment is increasingly encouraged and emphasized for newborns with cleft lip and palate