The impact of orthodontic treatment on the quality of life of cleft patients

Abstract

Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is one of the most common facial anomalies associated with genetic and environmental factors. The individual's perception of the results of orthodontic treatment can be measured through questionnaires. During and after orthodontic treatment, this assessment is essential to determine whether rehabilitation was successful. As CLPs affect the face and, often, speech, they cause functional and physical changes that have psychological and social implications, directly impacting the quality of life-related to oral health (OHRQoL). Social acceptance and interpersonal relationships are strong points in determining the OHRQoL and self-esteem of these patients. It is essential to evaluate the OHRQoL of these patients, especially the changes that occur due to the orthodontic treatment they are undergoing. According to the work results, it is possible to conclude that OHRQoL is lower in patients with cleft and is not influenced by sex or age. The OHRQoL of patients with clefts does not undergo significant changes over time with conventional orthodontic treatment. When the treatment involved the BAMP (bone-anchorage maxillary protraction) protocol, it was observed that 75% of patients had a positive impact on the OHRQoL after 18 months of therapy. Individuals with unilateral cleft lip and palate have a more negatively affected OHRQoL than individuals with cleft lip. There is no significant difference in the OHRQoL of individuals affected by unilateral or bilateral cleft lip and palate.

Keywords: cleft lip, cleft palate, quality of life, orthodontics, orthodontic anchorage procedures.