Mental health status of children with cleft palate and lip referred to Shiraz Orthodontic Research Center

Introduction: Children with cleft lip and palate have a wide range of emotional and social problems and low self-esteem from birth these problems affect the child's mental function. Aim: The aim of this study was to assessment the psychological and social status of children with cleft lip and palate referred to orthodontic research center in Shiraz. Method: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 60 children with cleft lip and palate referred to Shiraz Orthodontic Research Center in 2018. Samples were selected easily and non-randomly from those referred to the Orthodontic Research Center. Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire Which evaluates children's problems and abilities; Completed by parents. Finally, data analysis was performed with SPSS software version 21. Descriptive indices (central and dispersion) and one-way analysis of variance were used to analyze the data. Results: The mean total score of problems (Hyperactivity and behavioral problems, emotional symptoms, altruistic behavior) of children with cleft lip and palate was 7.61± 1.50; Which was average in mental health. All indicators of ability and problems are significant difference between the groups of cleft palate, cleft lip and cleft palate (P<0.001). Conclusion: Early evaluations and timely intervention in cleft lip and palate children increase families awareness of the rehabilitation process.