Cleft lip and palate are two of the most prevalent facial birth defects, impacting families worldwide. Cleft lip and palate happen when the tissues to create the lip or top of the mouth fail to meet correctly early in pregnancy. Treatment of cleft lip and palate usually begins during infancy and childhood, often with a multidisciplinary team to ensure good development.
Parents are typically stunned if the child has been diagnosed with a cleft condition. Fortunately, today’s treatments are extremely effective and provide children with the tools necessary to grow up confidently and comfortably.
An experienced Orthodontist in NE Calgary plays a key role in guiding dental and jaw development as a child grows, especially for those with facial differences caused by cleft conditions.
Children diagnosed with cleft lip or palate often fall under the broader category of craniofacial anomalies in NE Calgary, which may include additional structural differences in the face and skull.
Let’s Understand the Condition
A cleft lip is a visible gap in the upper lip, and a cleft palate is a gap in the roof of the mouth. They may be present separately or together and vary in intensity from mild to severe. They may appear on one or both sides of the mouth and may cause feeding and speech difficulties if not addressed.
Parents will wonder how their child’s future will be impacted by this disorder, but with early detection and an effective care plan, most issues are dealt with effectively.
What Foods Cause Cleft Lip?
One frequently asked question is what foods cause a cleft lip. While no specific food directly causes clefting, there is evidence that poor maternal nutrition, especially a deficiency in folic acid, may increase the risk. Smoking, alcohol use, and certain medications during pregnancy are also contributing factors.
Maintaining a healthy diet and getting proper prenatal care can help reduce the chances of craniofacial issues.
When Treatment Begins
Surgical repair for a cleft lip is generally performed between 3 and 6 months of age, while palate surgery is typically done between 9 and 18 months. These procedures are the foundation of the child’s care and are essential for normal feeding, speech, and appearance.
After surgery, many children benefit from therapies and regular monitoring to support their growth and development.
Cleft Lip/Palate Calgary Care Services
Access to specialized services such as Cleft Lip/Palate Calgary ensures that children receive coordinated and compassionate care. These programs often include a team of surgeons, speech therapists, pediatricians, and orthodontists working together.
Having an established care plan also allows parents to anticipate future stages of their child’s journey.
Long-Term Dental Considerations
Orthodontic treatment becomes especially important as the child grows and permanent teeth begin to erupt. Many children with clefts experience dental issues such as missing, extra, or misaligned teeth.
This is where dental specialists step in to guide proper alignment and prepare for any future dental procedures needed to restore function and appearance.
What Are the Stages of Treatment?
The journey to treating cleft lip and palate typically involves several stages:
- Initial surgery to repair the cleft lip and/or palate
- Speech therapy if needed for language development
- Dental assessments to monitor tooth eruption
- Orthodontic treatment during childhood or adolescence
- Additional surgeries if necessary for facial refinement
With proper care and planning, each stage leads to a more functional and confident outcome for the child.
Let’s Build Confident Smiles – Totally Orthodontics Is Just A Call Away!
Families going through this journey often benefit from emotional support and community resources. Local and online support groups can provide encouragement, education, and shared experiences that help parents feel less alone.
No two cleft journeys are the same, but every family deserves understanding, compassion, and expert care. Totally Orthodontics is here to support your family every step of the way. Schedule a consultation with our caring team today and take the first step toward confident smiles.
