To assess the prevalence of dental caries and to evaluate oral health-related quality of life in cleft lip and palate patient

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of dental caries and evaluate oral health-related quality of life (QoL) in patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP) in Vidarbha region. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted in the Department of Public Health Dentistry of our institute. The sample was divided into three groups. Subjects and Methods: Group A (110) patients with unilateral CLP (UCLP), Group B (110) patients with bilateral CLP (BCLP), and Group C (150) control group. From self-administered questionnaire, the patients were asked 10 questions based on eating, speaking, toothbrushing, sleeping, smiling, emotional status, carrying out work, and social contact and rated as 0, 1, 2, and 3 (no problem, mild, moderate, and severe). Statistical Analysis Used: ANOVA and Pearson's correlation tests were performed. Results: According to the results, there is no statistical difference for decayed, missing, and filled teeth score seen between UCLP and BCLP patients; however, there is significant difference (<0.001) seen between the cleft patients and control group. According to questionnaire result, the patients with bilateral cleft experienced more difficulty while eating, speaking, smiling, and maintaining social contact as compared to the control group. Conclusion: Patients suffering from CLP showed higher caries prevalence compared to the control group; on the other hand, negative impact has been seen on the QoL of CLP patients.