Many children born with a cleft lip or palate will have significant dental issues. If this is the case with your child, The Dental Anesthesia Center can help.
They may have missing teeth, especially in the line of the cleft. They may also have misshapen or malformed or extra teeth. As a result, their teeth may be tilted, rotated, or crowded.
A child with a cleft lip or palate needs a team of doctors to care for their needs. They’ll likely need an oral surgeon, a pediatric dentist, and an orthodontist for their dental care. If this is the case with your child, The Dental Anesthesia Center can help. We provide dental care for children and adults with special needs.
Searching for a new dental clinic is challenging for someone who has
dental anxiety, fear, and traumatic experiences in a dental chair. The staff and doctors at the Dental Anesthesia Center were immediately very welcoming. Dr. Thoms put together a very detailed plan to repair and replace the previous work that I had in the past that was now causing problems. Putting my faith in him was the best thing that I could have done for my situation. I am more than completely satisfied with all of the extensive dental work that I’ve had with Dr.Thoms. I had my fourth sleep dentistry experience yesterday and I’m very happy with my results. I highly recommend this practice and truly want to give them more than five stars! Thank you for giving me back my health and confidence.
I adding to this post because of my visit today with the best dental hygienist Delaina and my exam with Dr. Biehl. I have truly never been to such a caring and supportive dental group. Everyone is always conscientious of my needs and knows that I have issues with anxiety. I am always calm when I am sitting in the chair because of their kindness. I am so pleased with the Dental anesthesia center. There needs to be more than five stars. Thank you, everyone.
Response from the owner:We know it isn’t always easy to find a dental office where you feel at ease, so your words mean the world to us. We’re so glad you feel comfortable with our team and truly appreciate your trust and recommendation!
I am unusually tense about my appointments. However, from the moment I checked in I relaxed. The staff was welcoming and assuring, and helped me to relax completely. Dr. Hofmann is superb. He is by far the best dentist and dental surgeon I have ever ever experienced.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad our team helped create a welcoming and comforting experience. We appreciate you sharing your feedback!
I cannot thank this clinic enough for their amazing care. They completely accommodated my individual needs by letting him wait in the hallway where he had more room for his feet and space to pace. Instead of forcing him into a tiny exam room, the dentist came out to the hallway to check his mouth. It made the entire visit so much easier for him. Fantastic service!
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your kind words! We're grateful for the opportunity to provide compassionate, individualized care and appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Wishing you all the best!
Great experience! The staff went above and beyond to make my individual comfortable. They let him wait in the hallway so he could pace instead of staying in the crowded waiting room. The dentist even examined him right there. Highly recommend this accommodating team! Fantastic service!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're honored by your recommendation and are committed to providing compassionate, individualized care for every person we serve. We truly appreciate your kind words!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review! We appreciate your thoughtful words and are grateful you took the time to share your experience with our team.
What Is a Cleft Lip and Palate?
A cleft lip and palate are congenital abnormalities that form while a baby develops in the uterus. They occur when the tissues of the upper lip and roof of the mouth don’t join together correctly while the baby is developing in the womb. Surgery is required to repair a cleft lip and palate.
Cleft Lip:
During weeks four and seven of pregnancy, a baby’s lips form. Tissues from each side of the head join together at the center of the face to create our lips and mouth. A cleft lip develops when the tissues don’t join together properly. As a result, a gap forms between the two sides of the upper lip. A cleft ranges in size from a slight indentation to a large gap that opens to the nose. This separation can also include the roof of the mouth (the palate.)
Cleft Palate:
During weeks six and nine of pregnancy, the roof of the mouth, or palate, forms. A cleft palate is a split in the roof of the mouth. It can include the boney front part of the roof of the mouth or the soft palate, which is the delicate back part of the roof of the mouth.
Because the lips and mouth develop separately, it’s possible to have a:
Cleft palate without a cleft lip
Cleft lip without a cleft palate
Both a cleft lip and palate – this is the most frequent
Does a Cleft Lip or Palate Affect the Teeth?
Yes, children born with a cleft lip or palate are prone to dental issues such as cavities and missing and malformed teeth. The teeth may not erupt correctly or be in the wrong positions, misshapen, or missing altogether. Consistent exposure to the air can cause dry mouth, allowing bacteria to flourish. Oral surgery, orthodontic and dentistry care are all necessary.
How Can You Help Your Child Maintain Good Oral Hygiene?
It’s essential to begin good oral healthcare habits very young. This is true for everyone, so it’s necessary for those with special needs. Visiting the dentist for regular checkups is also essential. For a child with a cleft palate, we recommend bringing them in well before their first birthday. Your dentist can advise how to best care for your child’s specific needs.
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The first two board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.
