CLEFT LIP AND PALATE- THE ROLE OF A PEDODONTIST

Children with facial differences have unique identities with something special to add to the community. But they are often seen as object of pity suffering ‘emotional burn out’ & the pain of ‘being different’. Thus it is our duty to provide them with hope and boost their confidence to live a balanced and fulfilling life without the fear of being judged or pressurized to act otherwise. A Pediatric dentist is an integral part of the cleft rehabilitative process right from birth till onset of adulthood being well versed with a child’s growth development as well as psychological well being. They play a pivotal role in restoring both esthetics & function of a cleft child in a most empathetic way. As truly said… “Nothing is more beautiful than the smile that has struggled through tears” thus this novel has been a humble effort to pen down the enormous challenges faced by these innocent souls & the inevitable role played by a Pedodontist in providing comprehensive care in order to achieve the best possible outcome and meaningfully improve their quality of life.