Dentist in general and orthodontist and oral surgeon in particular play very important role in overall management of cleft patients.

At the time of birth, if the cleft is very wide cleft child may need an acrylic plate fitted in the palate. This is done by the orthodontist. This will help narrow the cleft and bring it in proper alignment which will in turn make the operations easier. To make the plate, the orthodontist has to take the impression of the palate of the child. For this the young child is given a short lasting anesthesia. The orthodontist will put the block of the special cement in the oral cavity for about two to five minutes. During this time the cement will harden and a good impression will be obtained. From the impression the orthodontist will make the plate after deciding the size and type of the cleft.

In cases where the cleft affects the gum and the palate, permanent teeth may erupt irregularly. Orthodontist carry out treatment to align these teeth to give the patient a good normal looking teeth line. For this teeth are tied up in wires and bonds and other appliances. Therefore, it is very important that the child has good dental hygiene and strong teeth right from the beginning. Proper brushing habits and periodic visit to the dentist are very important.

When the cleft has affected the gums, it is necessary to fill in some bone in that area so that the orthodontist can help the teeth grow in that area. This bone is taken from the loin bone of the patient. This operation is carried out at the time of lip repair when the child is about 3 month old or at the age between 5 - 10 years. The patient will not have any permanent problems because of taking bone from the loin.

When the operation is delayed because of some result, it may be necessary to give the child an artificial palate. This is generally made by the prosthodontist - a dental doctor who prepares artificial teeth and other such material.