Congenital Malformations

Facial Development is an important aspect of general body growth, which means any congenital malformations such as a cleft palate need to be corrected as early as possible. Surgical treatments are needed in the case of congenital malformations of the face and if there is continuity in the treatment of patients with various specialists (surgeons, orthodontists, orthopedic surgeons, pediatricians, and others) there is a high rate of full facial  correction.

The term “congenital malformation” – refers to the morphological changes in an organ or tissue beyond normal showing deviations from the normal structure. This is accompanied by functional impairment and delay in facial development.  Congenital malformations of the face and jaw are complex dental problems in children; the urgency of this problem is due to the fact that almost all malformations of the face and jaws are accompanied with malformations of other organs and systems of the child.  Currently, more than 180 syndromes are associated with malformations of the face, jaw and teeth.  Congenital malformations of the maxillofacial region in children are not only medical but also a social problem whose solution requires a complex of measures aimed at disease prevention as well as treatment and rehabilitation of children with this disease.

The Role of a Dentist Trained in Facial Development and Treatment of Congenital Malformations

The role of the dentist in the treatment and rehabilitation of children with congenital malformations includes:

1. Discussing with parents about available treatment for the child
2. Organization and  consulting an oral surgeon and if necessary other experts
3. Training parents on how to feed children with cleft lip and palate
4. The prevention of inflammatory complications,
5. Timely referral of child for routine operations and preparation of the child for surgery

Some Congenital Malformations that affect or delay Facial development:

• Cleft lip and cleft palate
• Craniosynostosis
• Hemifacial microsomal
• Vascular malformation
• Hemangioma
• Deformational plagiocephaly

Measures for the prevention and treatments of facial congenital defects are based on the causative factors because without knowledge of the main causes of malformations it is impossible to devise preventive measures.  Though the formation of congenital defects of the face is mostly as a result of several teratogens, it is necessary to note the following adverse factors affecting the occurrence of congenital malformations: close family marriages, the age of the parents (especially mothers) and surgical intervention.  We strongly recommend that before you plan to have a child, you should take surveys, visit genetics and have a healthy lifestyle.

To arrange a consultation with a dentist to discuss the congenital malformations options for your child, please call us toll free at: 1-877-283-0497

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