Manejo de pacientes com fissuras labiopalatais na odontopediatria: revisão de literatura

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cleft lip and palate (CLP), also known as cleft lip or cleft palate, is a congenital malformation characterized by an opening in the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate). This opening can vary in size and severity and may affect only the lip, the palate, or both. This condition occurs during fetal development when the tissues that form the lip and palate fail to fuse properly. OBJECTIVE: To investigate, based on a review of the scientific literature, the current perspectives on therapeutic approaches for cleft lip and palate. METHODOLOGY: A search was conducted in the MEDLINE (PubMed) health database using the following search strategy: “Cleft Lip Palate” AND “Pediatric Dentistry,” with a filter applied to publications from the last five years. RESULTS: A total of 256 studies were found in the database, and after applying the selection criteria, 20 articles were included in the review. Most studies addressed the influence of pre-surgical molding techniques, such as nasoalveolar molding, as well as other conventional techniques. Studies were also found that evaluated orthodontic approaches for these patients, as well as the prevalence of caries and the impact of CLP on quality of life. CONCLUSION: Patients with CLP exhibit various oral alterations that directly impact function, aesthetics, and quality of life. Therefore, dental follow-up is essential from the pre-surgical stage to optimize post-surgical outcomes and prevent oral diseases, thereby positively impacting the patient's well-being.