Cleft Lip & Palate in Oak Park

A cleft lip or palate are among the most common facial birth defects. They can pose some issues related to oral health, which is why it’s important for parents to consider a check-up from a pediatric dentist experienced with cleft lip or palate issues.

A cleft lip/palate can affect the number, size, shape, and/or position of a child’s baby teeth or even their permanent teeth. The teeth in the area of the cleft are typically the ones most affected, which usually include the lateral incisors. Sometimes, these teeth might be absent entirely. Poorly formed or misplaced teeth can also result from a cleft lip/palate.

For a child with a cleft lip or palate, regular preventative and restorative care is still important, however, these procedures may require a special approach. A missing, malformed or malpositioned tooth will require special consideration from a dentist. Our experienced staff can examine the patient’s situation and determine the best treatment plan.

For children, early dental care can mean the difference between a healthy smile and an uncomfortable one. With good nutrition and proper cleaning, your dentist can help your child overcome their cleft lip/palate and maintain a healthy smile. They will be able to assist you in finding the right soft-bristled toothbrush and coming up with a treatment plan to fix any teeth that are missing, incorrectly positioned, or not fully formed.

Early treatment is considered one of the absolute best approaches for a person with a cleft lip/palate. However, our dentists can also accommodate the needs of a patient who requires care later in life due to a cleft lip/palate. Our staff are highly skilled and trained when it comes to accommodating such needs. For more information on Cleft Lip & Palate issues in Oak Park, contact our office today.