Management of patients with non-syndromic clefts of the lip and/or palate part 1: from antenatal diagnosis to primary surgery

Abstract

Patients with clefts of the lip and/or palate require input from a diverse group of medical, surgical, dental and parasurgical specialties working as part of a multidisciplinary team in the UK. Co-ordinated care ensures that the patient receives optimal treatment whilst minimizing the burden of care for the NHS and family. The primary care dentist has an important role in the overall management of patients with clefts. Because the dentist-patient/parent relationship is of a long-term nature, the primary care dentist can also provide useful support and advice for families as they progress through the care pathway. This three-part article will illustrate the integration of dentistry with the other aspects of care. Clinical Relevance: Dentists should be aware of the different types of cleft lip and/or palate that occur and the role of the dentist in the overall management of patients who have clefts.