Cleft Lip & Palate Repair

Cleft Lip & Palate Repair is usually performed early in life. Even after the repair is complete, a long road lies ahead to restore correct form and function. Despite correctly performed surgeries in the first 2 years of life, deficits may still remain including:

• Growth restriction of the upper jaw

• Missing bone (clefting of upper jaw)

• Nasal Fistulas

• Missing teeth

• Jaw deformities

• Dental problems and “underbite”

It is important that your child get early involvement with an appropriately trained orthodontist. This is vital in monitoring and modifying your child’s growth. Tooth development is intimately involved in determining the timing required for the optimal outcome. Development of your child’s teeth and jaws may require bone grafting at a specific developmental point. Frequently, involvement of the Oral & Maxillofacial surgeon is recommended for bone grafting, jaw surgery, and implant placement of congenitally missing teeth. These are routine procedures for the Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon, and are easily applied to the cleft patient. Please visit the corresponding tabs on this website for more information. Trained in both surgery and dentistry, the Oral & Maxillofacial surgeon has an important and unique role in providing care to your child.