SHORT- AND MID-TERM OUTCOMES OF ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT FOR MESIAL OCCLUSION IN MIXED DENTITION CLEFT PATIENTS

Cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) represents one of the most common congenital craniofacial anomalies worldwide, with a global prevalence of approximately one case per 700 live births. The incidence of CLP varies considerably across populations, reflecting genetic, environmental, and ethnic influences. Higher prevalence rates are reported among Asian and Native American populations, while lower rates are observed in individuals of African descent. Beyond its anatomical presentation, CLP constitutes a significant public health concern due to its long-term impact on facial appearance, oral function, speech development, and psychosocial well-being of affected individuals and their families.