[Dental esthetic restoration for cleft lip and palate patients]

Cleft lip and palate, as one of the most common congenital deformities of the oral and maxillofacial region, not only affects the physiological functions of patients, but also has a profound impact on their psychological well-being. Traditional sequential treatment for cleft lip and palate aims to restore primary functions and typically concludes intervention after orthodontic treatment. However, this management protocol often fails to meet patients' expectations for esthetic outcomes. In the process of dental esthetic restoration, it is essential to adhere to the principles of comprehensive planning, sequential treatment, and tooth preservation, while formulating individualized treatment strategies. This article delves into the main challenges and corresponding therapeutic measures in dental esthetic restoration following sequential treatment for cleft lip and palate patients. It systematically analyzes the causes, clinical manifestations, and treatment methods for esthetic defects in dental arch space, dental hard tissues, and periodontal soft tissues. The study proposes that dental esthetic restoration can be implemented during three critical phases of sequential treatment: the mixed dentition stage, early permanent dentition stage, and adulthood stage to reduce the complexity of subsequent treatments, thereby preserving more dental and periodontal tissues. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and the application of digital technology, not only has the efficiency and predictability of treatment been enhanced, but more economical and effective treatment options have also been provided for patients. The aim is to offer clinicians comprehensive treatment insights, promoting a shift in the treatment philosophy for cleft lip and palate patients from "function-oriented" to a multidimensional approach that equally emphasizes" function-aesthetics-psychosocial aspects", ultimately achieving a comprehensive improvement in patients' quality of life.