Alveolar cleft reconstruction using iliac bone graft: a clinical case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Alveolar clefts are frequently occurring congenital anomalies that can significantly impact both the functional and aesthetic aspects of an individual’s life. Thus, reducing the quality of life. These clefts can give rise to difficulties in feeding, speech, and dental development. Furthermore, the presence of a gap in the alveolar ridge can disrupt the proper alignment and eruption of permanent teeth. Various techniques have been developed to effectively repair these defects and restore oral function and rehabilitation. CASE PRESENTATION: An 18-year-old girl is presented with unilateral alveolar cleft which was successfully repaired by utilizing iliac bone grafting and augmenting the defect to restore proper bone architecture and gain suitable support for dental prostheses. Therefore, enhancing oral health by closing the oronasal fistula and improving aesthetics and functional abilities including speech. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Having an alveolar cleft can lead to challenges which may require a multidisciplinary approach, including surgical intervention, orthodontic treatment, and dental rehabilitation. The primary goal is to close the cleft, restore normal speech and feeding functions, and promote proper dental development. CONCLUSION: Patients who suffer from alveolar clefts need appropriate treatment. This case report suggests a surgical technique of utilizing the combination of hard and soft tissue management to fix the problem for such individuals and achieve improved oral health, speech, and overall enhancement in quality of life.