Cleft Lip and Palate: Understanding the Connection

Cleft lip and cleft palate are two separate birth defects that can occur together or separately.

When they do occur together, it is known as a complete cleft. A complete cleft involves a separation of the lip, gum line, and roof of the mouth (palate).

Incomplete clefts only involve a separation of the lip or palate. Cleft lip and palate are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.