Fixed partial dentures in adult patients with cleft lip and palate and their relationship with the quality of life: A cross-sectional clinical study.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Reports on the impact of fixed partial denture treatments on the quality of life of patients with cleft lip and palate are lacking.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this cross-sectional clinical study was to assess the impact of fixed partial dentures on the quality of life of adults with cleft lip and palate.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

A total of 52 participants (23 women and 29 men) with cleft lip and palate, aged between 20 and 50 years old, and who required treatment with fixed partial dentures were enrolled in the study. They responded to the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)-14 questionnaire before and 30 days after the fixed prosthodontic treatment. The final value from the OHIP-14 was generated by totaling the 14 answers, giving a range from 0 to 56, with higher values indicating a worse relationship between oral health and the quality of life. Nonparametric statistical analysis was performed with the Wilcoxon test (α=.05).

RESULTS

Forty-six participants reported some negative experience before the fixed partial denture, and 48 indicated an improved quality of life 30 days after delivery. All domains assessed showed significant quality of life improvements between the periods compared (P≤.014).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral treatment with fixed partial dentures improved the quality of life in adults with cleft lip and palate.