Along with the common problem of a cleft lip, there is also something called the cleft palate. This can form in the same way as the cleft lip – in which there is not enough tissue present in a developing baby, so the palate does not close together properly. Unlike the cosmetic problems associated with a cleft lip, there are other, more serious problems associated with cleft palate. This article will explain those, and how to repair this issue.
What is a cleft palate?
Unlike a cleft lip, a cleft palate is an opening inside the mouth. This occurs on the roof of the mouth – either in the soft palate or the hard palate. The soft palate is the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth, while the hard palate is the bony portion in the front of the mouth.
Are cleft lip and cleft palate related conditions?
Cleft palate and cleft lip are separate conditions. This is due to the fact that the lip and the palate develop separately. Because of this, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both occurring at the same time.
How is this condition repaired?
Repair of a cleft palate typically requires multiple surgeries over the course of the child’s early to adolescent years. It may take several reconstructions over 18 years to completely correct the problem. The first surgery is performed when the baby is about 6 to 12 months old. In this surgery, a functional palate is created, which reduces the chance that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and also aids the proper development of teeth and facial bones.
Because a cleft palate is essentially a condition in which the bones are missing, children with this condition may need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in their upper gum lines. This is because without those missing bones, the jaw may not be able to support permanent teeth and may also be very unstable.
Another problem associated with cleft palate is a speech impediment. Because of this, some children may require a further surgery to help improve their speech. Speech is very difficult when part of the palate is missing. Braces may also be needed to help improve the appearance of your teeth.
This condition is something that is difficult for children all throughout their lives. It not only causes cosmetic issues, but it harms the ability to speak the ability to have proper bone structure, and a variety of other things. Luckily, modern medicine has gained advancements in reconstructive surgery that can improve quality of life for children with this issue. Cleft lip and palate repair in Las Vegas is a great option for improving your overall quality of life and creating that healthy feel you need to in order to feel good about yourself. Not only will this surgery correct cosmetic issues, but it will improve the ability to digest food and speak properly. Talk to your doctor today about this surgery for you or your child.
To learn more about cleft palates, click here.