Study on the application of oral digital design in aesthetic restoration of anterior teeth of cleft lip/palate patients.

Objectives: A study was conducted to investigate the clinical effects of oral digital design on the aesthetic restoration of anterior teeth of cleft lip/palate patients.

Methods: Nine adult cleft lip/palate patients who need aesthetic restoration of anterior teeth were recruited. Digital information of patients' dental arches, the surrounding soft tissue and face were captured by digital camera and scanner. The aesthetic analysis and design were conducted using keynote and 3shape software and were demonstrated to the patients. The optimized treatment plan was ensured by communicating with the patients. Digital wax-up models were exported and printed into resin diagnostic models, which were then utilized in the treatment process to guide the doctors and the technicians in tooth preparation and in making the final restorations, respectively. The adhesive procedure was completed after satisfactory try-in. Aesthetics assessment was conducted in accordance with the anterior esthetic evaluation form. The scores of patient's satisfaction were recorded on a questionnaire containing six items of aesthetic index and doctor-patient communication. Patients were interviewed and examined after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively, and the clinical effects of restorations were evaluated.

Results: All nine patients had satisfactory clinical results. The aesthetic defects of the patients were effectively addressed. All treatments met the requirements of the preoperative digital designs. The patients' scores were all above 90 on the satisfaction scale. At 12 months after the operation, the clinical effects of restorations of all cases achieved A class in each evaluation indicator.

Conclusions: For cleft lip/palate patients with esthetic defect in the anterior teeth, the digital design plays an important role in optimizing the treatment plan and guides the whole treatment process. This design can help clinicians achieve predictable satisfactory aesthetic results.