Collaborative action to STOP oral disease in people with cleft
In this session, we will describe FDI and Smile Train's Oral Health in Comprehensive Cleft Care program, and STOP protocol which is designed to serve as a model for best practices in health promotion for patients with clefts. We will discuss the program's goals, objectives, and key components, including early assessment and intervention, regular dental check-ups, and education and counseling for patients and their families.
To ensure equity in oral health promotion for patients with clefts, we will also provide a framework for addressing social, commercial, and political determinants of oral health and adopting the proportionate universalism principle.
In conclusion, this session will provide attendees with a multidisciplinary approach to oral health promotion for patients with clefts, including best practices in care, primary prevention strategies, equity considerations, and collaboration with stakeholders. Through case studies, interactive discussions, and expert presentations, attendees will gain practical insights and actionable recommendations for improving oral health outcomes for patients with clefts and other vulnerable populations.

Learning Objectives

 
 Elizabeth Shick
The Oral Health in Comprehensive Cleft Care program developed by FDI and Smile Train is an innovative model of care that aims to address the challenges of oral disease and promote optimal oral health in patients with clefts. This program includes a range of recommendations and best practices, including early assessment and intervention, regular dental check-ups, and education and counseling for patients and their families.
Smile Train has also developed the Smile Train Oral Prevention (STOP) protocol, which provides a framework of evidence-based interventions for primary prevention that can be implemented by oral health professionals and non-oral health professionals to improve oral health outcomes.
Through case studies and interactive discussion, attendees will gain an understanding of the Oral Health in Comprehensive Cleft Care program, the STOP protocol, and best practices for oral health promotion in patients with clefts. Attendees will also have the opportunity to evaluate the potential impact of these interventions on improving oral health outcomes and quality of life for patients with clefts and identify opportunities for further research and innovation in this area.

Learning Objectives

Prof. Peter Mossey
Oral health is an integral part of overall health and well-being, yet it is often neglected, particularly among people born with cleft. The social, commercial, and political determinants of oral health play a crucial role in creating and perpetuating health inequities.
To address health inequities in oral health, the principle of proportionate universalism should be applied in designing and implementing oral health improvement interventions. This principle recognizes that resources should be allocated in a way that prioritizes the most disadvantaged, while still benefiting the population as a whole. By adopting this approach, we can ensure that interventions are equitable and effectively target those who are most in need.
Moreover, achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) requires a collaborative and synergistic approach between upstream and downstream stakeholders. It is essential to involve policymakers, health professionals, and community members in the implementation of oral health interventions. This collaboration will help address the root causes of oral health inequities and create sustainable solutions that promote health equity.

Learning Objectives