Cleft lip and palate patients often suffer from myriad dental anomalies that require dentist’s intervention. Supernumerary teeth and missing teeth are more likely in this population. Eruption of teeth, both primary and permanent, may be abnormal in and around the area of the hard tissue cleft. Teeth adjacent to the cleft have a higher incidence of malformation and malposition, and frequently require restoration due to caries or esthetic concerns. Permanent teeth can cause severe malformations and dental issues. Disposition and rotation of the teeth in cleft children causes challenges in maintaining dental and oral hygiene. It has also been found out that cleft lip and palate gene mutation results in development of abnormal salivary glands which made environment of the mouth acidic, hence causing gum problems and rapid tooth decay. Dentist can help parents in understanding the dental problems of cleft child and guide them in helping the child to maintain dietary habits and oral hygiene along with the dental treatments before and after surgery.

Dental treatment of cleft children can be long and burdensome for parents as it often requires extensive dental treatments and eventually orthodontic treatments but the importance of the dental provider remains integral over time. Monitoring teeth for proper eruption, making appropriate and timely referrals to orthodontic providers, and ensuring that families have established relationships with local cleft lip and palate teams are all vital functions.

Techniques Used by Cleft Dentist:

PSIO Appliances (Pre Surgical Infant Orthopedics)

NAM (Neso Alveolar Moulding)

Appliances for Cross Bite and facial Cavity

Orthodontically Facilitated Tooth movement