Integrating oral health into the cleft care continuum
Cleft lip and palate (clefts) are the most common birth difference of the face and mouth, which can lead to difficulties with feeding and even survival following birth. Cleft lip can affect as many as 1 in 500 births, yet many children never receive the reconstructive surgery they need.
Even children who undergo cleft surgery are often at an increased risk for caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health issues as they grow and develop. These children require regular dental care to ensure adequate monitoring, education, support, and treatment to prevent oral disease and ensure the highest possible quality of life.
Cleft lip and palate (clefts) are the most common birth difference of the face and mouth, which can lead to difficulties with feeding and even survival following birth. Cleft lip can affect as many as 1 in 500 births, yet many children never receive the reconstructive surgery they need.
Even children who undergo cleft surgery are often at an increased risk for caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health issues as they grow and develop. These children require regular dental care to ensure adequate monitoring, education, support, and treatment to prevent oral disease and ensure the highest possible quality of life.
To support this integration, oral health professionals must receive accurate, quality guidance and education in caring for patients with cleft.
Learning objectives:
Understand the dental home and why it is important for oral health professionals and people with cleft
Understand oral diseases that affect people with cleft and minimally invasive interventions
Understand the available interventions to aid babies born with cleft feed, survive and thrive
Understand the impact the WHO Oral Health Resolution has on comprehensive cleft care
