Anterior Esthetic Rehabilitation of an Alveolar Cleft Using Novel Minimally Invasive Prosthodontic Techniques: A Case Report

Cleft Palate Craniofac J. 2021 Jul;58(7):912-918. doi: 10.1177/1055665620964709. Epub 2020 Oct 16.

Abstract

Missing lateral incisors are the most frequent dental disorder associated with cleft alveolus. When orthodontic closure of the edentulous space is not possible, more aggressive prosthodontic treatments are required. Contemporary resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses (RBFDPs) represent a promising, time-efficient alternative treatment with fewer biological complications. This clinical report proposes a modified approach to the esthetic rehabilitation of a patient with a complete unilateral cleft lip and palate on the left side and an incomplete cleft lip and alveolar cleft on the right side. Digital diagnostics, treatment planning, and clinical procedures involved in the fabrication of facially bonded RBFDPs are presented. This modified technique enables the concurrent replacement of lateral incisors and correction of the malformed central incisors as well as increasing the retention of the restorations.

Keywords: bone grafting; dental anomalies; esthetics; orthodontics; prosthodontics; tooth agenesis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cleft Lip* / surgery
  • Cleft Palate* / surgery
  • Esthetics, Dental
  • Humans
  • Incisor
  • Prosthodontics