The prosthodontic management of cleft palate patients.

The role of the prosthodontist in the multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of the cleft palate patient has been described. A brief review of the literature on the historical background, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of the cleft palatal defect has been presented. A technique for constructing a cleft palate prosthesis has been outlined in detail. Treatment of several patients using this technique has produced excellent results. Prosthetic therapy aids the patient in developing normal speech, promoting deglutition and mastication and in closing off the oral cavity from the nasal cavity. The esthetic benefits can be instrumental in the psychologic and social acceptance of the cleft palate patient.