Orofacial clefts are one of the most prevalent birth defects in the United States, and they can manifest in multiple ways. A cleft palate occurs when a portion of your child’s mouth does not properly join together in-utero, resulting in an opening in the mouth. This opening is usually near the roof of the mouth, but it can also occur at the back of the mouth. When your child’s lip does not form properly, this is called a cleft lip. Some children can have both a cleft lip and a cleft palate, while some have only one or the other.

The preferred regimen for children with orofacial clefts varies based on the severity of the cleft and the exact issues caused by the cleft. As a parent, you should learn how you can assist with your child’s dental hygiene. You want to make sure that you aren’t brushing the affected area too hard, as this can cause pain or bleeding. However, the first step is to schedule a consultation with our practice to have your child evaluated.