Evaluation of Maxillary Arch Dimensions and Arch Symmetry in Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Infants Treated with Nasoalveolar Molding

Aim: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the changes in maxillary arch parameters and symmetry after nasoalveoler molding in unilateral total cleft lip and palate infants. Material and Method: For this purpose, 5 female and 10 male infants (5-75 days) previously treated with nasoalveoler molding were included. Strip bands were used in all cases together with the molding appliances. Infants were checked weekly until cleft segments were closed completely. Pretreatment and post molding photographs and casts were obtained. Amount of cleft, transversal distance of cleft, anterior and posterior arch widths, anterior and total arch lengths and asymmetry index were calculated on the study models. Paired t test was used to investigate whether there are any differences statistically between the pretreatment and posttreatment mean values, while Wilcoxon sign test was used in terms of differences between the median values. Results: Cleft widths decreased and cleft segments were closed each together after nasoalveoler molding in all cases. Anterior arch width did not show any significant change while posterior arch width increased statistically significant (2 mm). Anterior arch length decreased with a mean of 1,8 mm, while total arch length did not show any changes. The change of asymmetry index was found statistically significant. Conclusion: Cleft segments were aligned properly after nasoalveoler molding therapy and an improvement was obtained in arch symmetry.