THE IMPORTANCE OF ORAL REHABILITATION OF CLEFT LIP AND PALATE

Abstract

Cleft lip and palate are the second most common defect present at birth. It is an alteration in the development of the midface line during the prenatal stage that can affect the lips, gums, hard and soft palate. As the facial cleft affects the entire stomatognathic system, orthodontics is a central element of the overall treatment process. Rehabilitation and care of children with cleft lip include specialists in different areas such as doctors, dentists, speech therapists, among others. However, in many low-income countries, there are not enough resources to optimally care for patients. As it results in a change in the anatomy of the upper lip and/or palate, it results in a series of functional, psychological and social changes. Due to the importance of knowledge regarding cleft palate, the present work aimed to discuss the classification, etiology, main oral care in cleft children, as well as therapeutic options in the treatment of cleft lip and palate.