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Cleft Palate

What is Cleft Palate?

  • Cleft palate is a birth defect in which tissue at the roof of the mouth does not completely join together.
  • Both the front and back sections of the palate can be open.

  • Cleft palate forms in the fetus during pregnancy.
  • It is believed to be caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors, although there is no known cause in many cases.
  • Smoking during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of the child developing cleft palate.

  • Treatment to correct Cleft Palate involves surgery.
  • It is recommended that the surgery is performed within the first 18 months of the child’s life.
  • Advanced orthodontics and speech therapy may also be necessary depending on the specific development of the cleft palate.

With proper treatment, most children with cleft palates live healthy, happy lives. A coordinated care approach is most successful in achieving positive long-term outcomes.