The Ontario Cleft Lip and Palate/Craniofacial Dental Program
One in every 700 infants in Ontario is born with a cleft of the lip and/or palate or other craniofacial difference. These conditions can be corrected through surgery, specialized dental treatment and speech therapy. To assist families of children and young adults who must cope with the expense of specialized dental treatment, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care provides funding for The Ontario Cleft Lip and Palate/Craniofacial Dental Program, managed by the Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health. This program provides financial assistance for the specialized dental needs of affected individuals. Learn more about the Ontario Cleft Lip and Palate/Craniofacial Dental Program.
Children and youth will be seen for an eligibility assessment by our dental director, orthodontist, oral surgeon and prosthodontist. You will receive a report in the mail that indicates whether you are eligible for the funding.
This program is for funding only. We do not arrange dental care under sedation. Please consider referring the child to a pediatric dentist in their area who has OR privileges at a local hospital. The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario can help you find a pediatric dentist. https://www.rcdso.org/ . We do not diagnose children suspected of having a craniofacial syndrome. Please consider making a referral to genetics at McMaster Children’s Hospital if a craniofacial syndrome is suspected.
For more information, visit the Cleft Lip and Palate Program page for patients and families.
Patients/Conditions To Refer
Cleft lip and palate
Craniofacial Syndromes: i.e. Down Syndrome, Cleidocranial Dysplasia
Congenital oral defect: i.e. severe ameliogenesis imperfecta, severe oligodontia (6 or more missing teeth not including the 7s and 8s), severe dentogenesis imperfecta
Acquired Facial/Oral Defects: i.e. oral/facial cancers
Diagnoses with demonstrated craniofacial change: i.e. sagittal craniosynostosis
Referral & Contact Information
Referrals
Phone: 905-521-2100 ext. 77210
Download referral form and fax to 905-521-7953.
Assessment Options
- Most assessments will be in person with the orthodontist, pediatric dentist, oral surgeon and prosthodontist. Patients with certain diagnoses such as oligodontia may be offered a virtual visit with the dental director and coordinator.
Estimated Wait Times
Estimated wait time: 6 months