Prosthodontic management of the cleft-palate patient.

Unlike some of the disciplines involved in the treatment of the cleft-palate patient, prosthodontics can have application from birth to death. Prosthodontic care never ends. Once surgical care or speech therapy has been completed, the need for follow-up care is ended unless specific problems manifest. With prosthodontic care, not only a restoration of the anatomic, physiologic, and cosmetic deficiencies but also a continual vigilance for signs of dental and periodontal problems must be undertaken. Preventive care is imperative if long-term preservation of the supporting structures and the well-being of the patient are to be attained.