Cleft lip and palate is a facial and oral malformation which affects thousands of people worldwide It is a common congenital disorder which occurs when parts of the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate) do not properly fuse together during the development in the womb. In severe cases, a cleft lip can affect the underlying structures of the nose. Cleft lip and palate can be either partial or complete and affects both the external and internal structures of the face and mouth.
The primary treatment for cleft lip and palate is surgery. Surgical repair is necessary for both cosmetic and functional benefits, to ensure proper feeding and speech development. Repairs can be completed soon after the child is born or may be delayed for a year or longer depending on the severity. Here are the five best examples of cleft lip and palate treatments:
1. Cleft Palate Surgery: Cleft palate surgery is the repair of the soft tissue and bone structure in the roof of the mouth. The surgery typically involves a combination of bone grafts, tissue expansion and muscle flaps.
2. Cleft Lip Surgery: This surgery is performed to repair the tissue, muscle and skin of the upper lip. It typically consists of cutting the excess lip away and stitching the remaining lip tissue together to create a new, smoother lip line.
3. Orthognathic Surgery: Orthognathic surgery is a reconstructive jaw surgery which is used to correct soft tissue, jawbone and misalignment of the teeth. It is used to improve the bite and to help restore the facial features.
4. Orthodontic Treatment: Orthodontic treatment is a specialized treatment which involves the use of braces to realign teeth. This type of treatment is often used for children and adults to ensure proper bite and facial structure.
5. Speech Therapy: Speech therapy is a type of intervention used to correct speech which is associated with cleft lip and palate. It involves the use of a speech therapist who works with the patient on developing the correct pronunciation of words and correct breathing techniques.
These five treatments are the most commonly used treatments for cleft lip and palate. Each treatment is designed to improve the patient’s facial features, speech and overall quality of life. However, it is important to note that these treatments may not be effective in every case and that they can be costly.