Prospective cohort study shows positive behavior and quality of life in youth with cleft lip and palate during Class III malocclusion treatment, suggesting targeted support for specific concerns.
ObjectiveThis study describes behavior and quality of life (QoL) in youth with cleft lip and palate (CLP) during treatment for class III malocclusion.DesignProspective cohorts followed at baseline, maximal correction, treatment completion with debanding, and 1-year follow-up.ParticipantsYouth with CLP (n = 64-114) undergoing protraction (58%) or orthognathic surgery (42%) and their caregivers (n = 47-97).Main Outcome Measure(s)Child/Adult Behavior Checklists (C/ABCL) and Youth Quality of Life-Facial Differences (YQOL-FD).ResultsC/ABCL Externalizing, Internalizing, and Total Problems and YQOL-FD Negative Consequences, Negative Self-Image, and Stigma were significantly lower than norms across time points (Cohen's d = -0.22 to -0.93). Highest proportions above clinical cutoffs were for Internalizing (10%-17%) and Negative Self-Image (13%-15%). There were a few changes over time, and no differences based on treatment outcome.ConclusionsYouth with CLP had overall positive adjustment during treatment for class III malocclusion. Supports may target internalizing and self-image concerns.
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Johns et al. (2026) studied this question.
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