Comparison of the level of dental biofilm in children from Ecuador with cleft lip and palate

Cleft lip alveolar palate (FLAP) is a congenital malformation that affects the facial and oral structure of individuals who suffer from it, this can hinder proper oral hygiene thus creating dental biofilm, defined as a microbial community that forms on the surface of the teeth and oral tissues and is a critical factor in the development of dental caries and periodontal diseases. The objective of this research was to compare the levels of dental biofilm present in two groups of children: those with FLAP from the "Rostros Felices" Foundation and children without FLAP belonging to the "Ana Luisa Leoro" Educational Unit, in Ecuador, in order to identify possible differences in the accumulation of biofilm and its consequences. The methodology used was based on a non-experimental, cross-sectional, analytical and observational design. The technique applied to obtain the necessary information was the O'Leary index that was used as a measuring instrument, applied to the research sample, which showed a questionable (23.3%) and deficient (16.7%) index in children of the "Rostros Felices" Foundation, while in the children of the "Ana Luisa Leoro" Educational Unit there was an acceptable (26.7%) and questionable (20%) level. It is concluded that children with FLAP have higher levels of dental biofilm compared to those without this condition, highlighting the need to reinforce education and preventive practices in the oral health of these patients