EC Dental Science

Introduction: Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is the most common congenital craniofacial anomaly and its etiology has been attributed to various environmental, genetic and unknown factors.

Background: Rehabilitation of CLP generally requires a good team of all specialists. Presurgical nasoalveolar moulding (PSNAM) is a pre-orthopedic treatment which helps in shaping the cleft alveolus, palate, nose and lip components thereby enabling surgeons to achieve maximum results following primary surgery.

Case Description: A 27-day-old baby girl with bilateral complete cleft lip and palate reported seeking treatment for the defect. A pre-surgical nasoalveolar molding appliance was given and regular follow-up was done.

Conclusion: PNAM reduces the severity of initial alveolar cleft and nasal deformity and thus improves the post-surgical treatment outcome.

Clinical Significance: Facial growth problems are encountered with cleft lip and palate such as retrusion of mid face and distortion of the dento-alveolar bone. The management of cleft infants is essential to enhance esthetics which in turn builds social self-esteem in both parents and patients.

 Keywords: Nasoalveolar Moulding; Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate; Alveolar Defect; Feeding Plate; PSNAM

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