Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate

Many birth defects don’t have a defined cause. Such is the case of cleft lip and palate. In this blog, we will discuss this malformation and how to treat it. 

What Are Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate?

Picture your upper lip. Now cut it in half. Imagine this separation occurring in the pregnancy – That is cleft lip!

Now, when the palate separates in half, you are talking about a cleft palate.

It is possible to have one without the other, or both. We offer treatment for cleft lip and palate in NE Calgary with our team of experts.

Studies suggest that this condition occurs two times more in boys than girls, especially in Latins and Asians. 

What Causes It?

As we mentioned above, the cause is undefined; however, some factors increase the risk of getting it.

Genetics is one of them. If one of your parents has had it, or both, you may develop it. Anti-epileptic drugs and medications for acne also have an impact. Pregnant women must discuss their meds with their doctors for possible issues. easily

How to Diagnose It?

Our specialists in cleft lip and palate in NE Calgary will undoubtedly diagnose it because it is physically visible. They may even do it before the baby is born through an ultrasound.

If it happens to your child, you must seek cleft lip and palate orthodontics near you to prevent the following issues:

- Eating abnormalities – If a child has a split palate, liquids and foods may leak to the nose. There are artificial palates that may provide sealing for proper nutrition until they undergo treatment.

- Hearing problems – Since the liquids may leak other parts of your head, such as the nose and the middle ear, they may get infections that endanger the hearing capacities. We strongly suggest that you do not postpone treatment.

- Speech issues – Their voice will not carry well, which is why you may need to seek treatment. After the surgery, in most cases, it is corrected. 

- Oral diseases – Research shows that patients with cleft lip and palate are more vulnerable to develop dental cavities and even some dental pieces with malformation. In any case, good oral health is necessary.

In case of misaligned Teeth due to this condition, you may look for orthodontics NE Calgary to treat your child when the time comes. They may evaluate the baby when it is edentulous to check on their facial development.  

Among the specialists for solving the issues derived from cleft lip or palate, you may find:

- otolaryngologist,

- maxillofacial surgeon,

- prosthetic dentist,

- plastic surgeon,

- speech therapist. 

Even though it is a birth defect, the monitoring prevails until the patient is a grown adult.

What to Expect from the Procedure?

We suggest early treatment to prevent grave issues. The first intervention for a cleft lip may occur in the third month of life. If it’s a cleft palate, your doctor may suggest waiting until the baby is six months for the first surgery (the treatment consists of multiple interventions). The second one is around the first year.

Our orthodontist in NE Calgary suggests orthodontic treatment at approximately 12 to 13 years when permanent teeth erupt.

Besides an orthodontist near you, you may need to look for a plastic surgeon to improve your aesthetics and conceal the scars.

After the necessary therapies, the patient may live a normal life without limitations related to this condition. 

Contact Us Today

If you have any questions about these malformations, you may contact us today or at your best convenience. 


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