Treating Cleft Palate and Other Craniofacial Conditions

Posted on 12/1/2023 by Weo Admin

Woman smiling after dental appointment at Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center in Livermore, CA

A cleft palate means there are splits or gaps in the mouth or face when an unborn baby is developing inside their mother. Cleft lips and palates are common congenital disabilities worldwide.

What Causes Cleft Palate and Other Craniofacial Conditions?

Cleft lip and palate are facial problems. They occur without a clear reason and cannot be prevented. Scientists believe that both genes and environmental factors may contribute. The health of the mother during pregnancy might also play a role.

Certain medicines, like those for seizures and cancer, can lead to cleft palates in developing babies. Viruses and chemicals during pregnancy might also be a cause of this condition.

Treatment for Cleft Palate and Other Craniofacial Conditions

A cleft lip needs one or two surgeries based on how narrow or large the aperture is. The first surgery is usually done when the baby is about three months old. On the other hand, a cleft palate requires several surgeries starting from 1 to 18 years. These surgeries help change the lips, nose, and mouth.

Fixing a cleft palate is crucial as it promotes healthy teeth growth. Children with cleft palates have issues with how their teeth come in. Proper treatment helps ensure that teeth grow correctly, reducing dental problems. It also prevents ear problems and proper facial bone growth. Kids with cleft palates might need a bone transplant in their upper jaw when they are around eight years old to make room for permanent teeth. Many of these children also need additional surgeries to improve their speech. A cleft palate can make speaking difficult. Kids may need surgery and speech therapy to help them talk better.

Moreover, they might have more surgeries to improve how their lips, mouth, and nose look. These surgeries also help with breathing and making their jaws straight and stable. These children might also need braces to straighten their teeth when they have all their permanent teeth.

Board certified in Oral & Maxillofacial surgery

The surgical specialty of oral and maxillofacial surgery requires up to six additional years of hospital based surgical and anesthesia training beyond dental school.

Contact Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center Today!

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1133 E. Stanley Blvd. #215 • Livermore, CA 94550
Phone: 925-290-7727 Fax: 925-294-8800
Email: info@pacificofs.com

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2160 W. Grant Line Road #160 • Tracy, CA 95377
Phone: 209-835-4600 • Fax: 209-835-8833
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Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center, 1133 E Stanley Blvd #215, Livermore, CA 94550 : 925-290-7727 : pacificofs.com : 9/7/2024 : Page Terms:oral surgeon Livermore :