Understanding Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate: Causes & Overview

Cleft lip and cleft palate are common birth defects in which the upper lip or roof of the mouth is split open. These conditions are caused by a defective gene and environmental factors such as fetal exposure to viruses, drugs, alcohol and cigarettes.

Cleft Lip

• Cleft lip occurs when there is a split in the lip or palate, which can go from the lip to the upper gum and palate.

Cleft Palate

• Cleft palate affects soft palate muscles at the back of the mouth. This is not as visible and may not be diagnosed immediately.

Lip Treatment

• Cleft lip is treated with surgery to repair the problem. Surgery should be performed during the first three months of life.

Palate Treatment

• Cleft palate is treated with surgery, which should be performed before a child's first birthday. Ear tubes may be used during surgery to ventilate the middle ear, which may prevent loss of hearing.

Other Treatment

• Cleft lip and palate patients may need additional surgery between age 2 and their teen years to improve their facial appearance and speech. Patients also may need speech therapy.

Complications

• Complications for both conditions include difficulty eating and inadequate tooth and speech development. Children with cleft palate may have ear infections and hearing loss.