Oral Health Care of Cleft Lip and/or Palate Patients

Abstract

Patients with cleft lip and/or palate generally present dental anomalies and defects of lips and/or palate that could lead to difficulty in achieving adequate plaque control. The consequence of poor oral hygiene and high susceptibility to caries occur among these patients who require extensive treatment. To establish less complex and more effective cleft surgery and orthodontic treatment, appropriate oral health should be maintained. Coordination between the oral health care professionals and the cleft management team is necessary, the management of every health aspect should be considered. The integration of the preventive plan and oral hygiene care for prevention of dental disease into the cleft lip and/or palate treatment protocol is highly important.