What Is a Cleft Palate and Does It Affect the Teeth?

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.

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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.

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suzanne

I cannot say enough about Dr. Hoffmann and his incredible staff. I never thought for a second that I would not be terrified to go to the dentist for the rest of my life, but Dr. Hoffmann changed that. I have had extensive work done over the last few months, all pain free. I was missing teeth due to a decades old bridge falling out and Dr. Hoffman made sure I had a beautiful smile in time for my daughter’s wedding. I have never experienced a kinder more compassionate team, when you go, you know you are in good hands. There is more work to be done, but I am no longer afraid, at all. Thank you Dr. Hoffmann, and thank you to your team. You’ve changed my life.

I H.

I was terrified of the dentist and had not gone in years. I’m so glad I found Dr Hoffmann. I now can go to the dentist and am not scared to death. He is so kind. So gentle. I’m so grateful!

Betsi N.

Melissa did an excellent job making us feel comfortable through the entire process.

Suzanne K.

Always a welcoming and comfortable experience for my adult son with IDD. He’s been coming to this office for many years now, and he no longer has anxiety with dental work anymore.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re grateful for your support and are so glad you had a positive experience with our team.

Tim

Had a really bad experience with my dentist when I was younger. It was about 25 years since I went back to the dentist. My mouth was bad and DR Huffman fixed my teeth and have been going back for 20+ years. The staff are very friendly and my hygienist is very nice and gentle. I don’t even sweat in the chair anymore.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and 5-star review! We're grateful for your trust and are so glad you've had positive experiences with our team over the years. We truly appreciate your continued confidence in us and look forward to seeing you again!

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.