Previous studies have shown that the prevalence of dental caries were high in children with cleft lip/palate. The objective of this present study was to review epidemiology of dental caries and oral health care for preventive measures of dental caries in children with cleft lip/palate. The factors influencing caries risk in cleft children included poor oral hygiene, oral fistula, removable and orthodontic devices, dental anomalies, prolonged night time feeding and consumption of sugary foods. Children and their parents should receive adequate preventive advice about oral health care and the availability of dental treatment. Closer cooperation between pediatric dentists and parents can improve dental health for these children.

Keywords: Dental caries, Cleft lip, Cleft palate