Comprehensive Orthodontic Protocol in Cleft Lip and Palate Rehabilitation

AbstractCleft lip and palate rank among the most prevalent congenital conditions worldwide, with variations observed across different races, ethnicities, and regions. Issues related to cleft lip and/or palate tend to exacerbate as individuals age. While it presents as a distinct condition, its existence can adversely affect aesthetics and functionality, impacting growth, dental health, speech, hearing, and overall appearance, leading to social and psychological challenges for both the child and their parents. The origins of cleft lip and palate are multi-factorial, including genetic factors, exposure to teratogenic substances, and nutritional deficiencies, and it can manifest as either syndromic or non-syndromic clefts. The management of cleft lip and palate involves a team of various specialists, each bringing unique perspectives to a specific case, which ultimately contributes to achieving successful treatment outcomes. While the timing and methods for each intervention are still subject to debate, the orthodontist has a vital role inpre-surgical maxillary orthopaedics, which includes aligning the maxillary segments and teeth in preparation for subsequent alveolar bone grafting and achieving optimal dental relationships. Additionally, they prepare the dentition for potential prosthetic rehabilitation or orthognathic surgery if needed. Thus, to ensure an effective treatment outcome and to refine individual techniques or variations of the treatment protocol, it is essential to have a highly skilled team of specialists from various disciplines, ideally working on a multi-centre basis.Keywords : Cleft lip; Cleft palate; Dental care; Orthodontics