Primary molars with enamel defects in cleft lip and/or palate patients: a multicentre evaluation in England and Wales

Aims Cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) is associated with several dental anomalies, including enamel defects. There is, however, little research on enamel defects in primary molars in CLP. The aim of this evaluation was to establish the prevalence of enamel defects in the primary molars of CLP patients in England and Wales, explore possible associations and determine dental management.Methods The dental health assessment forms of five-year-olds born in 2012/2013 attending the cleft units in Liverpool (n = 104), Manchester (n = 128), Swansea (n = 97), London (Evelina, n = 82) and Cambridge (n = 68, 2012 only) were reviewed to determine prevalence. Patients with enamel defects in primary molars underwent detailed evaluation of clinical notes, photographs and radiographs.Results Overall, 11.7% had enamel defects in their primary molars (54/461). Cleft palate (41%) and unilateral cleft lip and palate (35%) were most commonly associated. Cardiac co-morbidities were present in 13% of cases; 13% of cases were syndromic. Among affected molars, 23% were carious. Prevention was the most common management for caries-free molars (55%); composite restorations were the most common management for carious molars (31%).Conclusions There may be a higher prevalence of enamel defects in primary molars in CLP. Further research on prevalence in the general and CLP population is needed.