Clinical psychologists are core members of UK cleft services. This paper outlines the variety of ways in which clinical psychologists work across the lifespan to promote the psychological wellbeing of those born with a cleft and their families. In the context of dental or orthodontic treatment, this involves a combination of early intervention and advice, psychological assessment or specialist psychological therapy for individuals experiencing dental anxiety or anxiety regarding the appearance of their teeth. This paper therefore aims to highlight the varying roles which clinical psychologists play in the provision of cleft-related dental care, often alongside multidisciplinary colleagues.
© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to the British Dental Association.