The Effect of Cleft Width on Maxillary Morphology in Newborn with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of cleft width on maxillary morphology in newborns with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP). Materials and Methods: Plaster models from 35 newborns with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) (17 boys, 18 girls) and 35 newborns with isolated soft palate cleft (CP) (16 boys, 19 girls) were examined. The measured parameters included C-C' , T-T', arch circumference, arch length, G-L, a-a', and b-b'. Statistical analyses were conducted using an independent samples t-test and Mann–Whitney U test for normally and non-normally distributed data, respectively. Pearson Correlation assessed the correlation between G-L and other measurements. The analysis was performed at a significance level of 0.05 using R software, version 4.0.5. Results: Statistically significant differences were found in C-C' (p < 0.001) and T-T' (p < 0.05) between the two groups. UCLP newborns showed a significant increase in arch length (28.4 ± 2.9 mm) compared to CP (25.0 ± 2.6 mm, p < 0.001). Both (a-a') and (b-b') demonstrated a significant increase in UCLP (p < 0.001). A significant correlation was observed between (G-L) and (C-C') and (a-a') (p < 0.01), and between (T-T') and (a-a') and (b-b') (p < 0.01). The correlation between arch circumference and (b-b') was significant at the 0.05 level. Conclusion: In UCLP newborns with increased anterior cleft width, the anterior alveolar arch width increases, affecting maxillary morphology. While early orthopedic and surgical interventions prove effective in managing severe clefts, the initial severity of the cleft width significantly influences dental arch relationships and treatment outcomes. Consequently, initiating maxillary expansion and protraction interventions during the early primary dentition period becomes crucial.