Maxillary Arch Form Variations in Turkish Adolescents with Cleft Lip and Palate: Clinical Implications for Orthodontic Treatment
Ege Dogan, Ozdil Selver, Servet Dogan, Hayal BoyaciogluAbstract
Background:
Maxillary arch morphology plays a key role in orthodontic diagnosis, archwire selection, and long-term treatment stability. In patients with cleft lip and palate, surgical interventions and altered growth patterns may significantly affect arch configuration.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to evaluate maxillary arch form variations in Turkish adolescents with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP), bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP), and non-cleft Class I malocclusion and to assess the influence of cleft phenotype on arch morphology.
Methods:
This retrospective cross-sectional study included 450 adolescents aged 12–16 years (150 UCLP, 150 BCLP, and 150 Class I controls). Maxillary dental casts were analyzed using standardized clinical reference points and OrthoForm template superimposition. Arch forms were classified as tapered, ovoid, or square. Intra-examiner reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Group differences were evaluated using chi-square analysis, and effect size was calculated using Cramer’s
Results:
Intra-examiner reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.88–0.95). Arch form distribution differed significantly among groups (
Conclusion:
Cleft phenotype is significantly associated with maxillary arch morphology in adolescents. These findings support the need for cleft-specific orthodontic assessment and individualized archwire selection. The results also provide population-specific reference data for improving orthodontic treatment planning in cleft care.