1. Common Birth Defect
Approximately 1 in 600 to 1 in 1,000 U.S. children are born with oral-facial clefts annually. Children with this defect have an opening in the lip, the roof of the mouth or in both locations. These openings occur during fetal development. All babies have this opening as they develop in the womb; however, it usually closes in the first three months of development. Cleft lips and palates can occur in isolation or in conjunction with other genetic disorders.
2. Review the Role of Environment and Genetics
Several environmental factors raise the risk for a cleft, including fetal exposure to smoke, alcohol, medications and illegal drugs. Also, if a mother contracts a virus or infection during pregnancy, the fetus may be at greater risk for a cleft. Nutrition is another relevant environmental factor. Poor nutrition, especially an inadequate amount of folic acid, may lead to a variety of birth defects, including cleft lips and palates. Genetics may also play a role since cleft lips and palates can run in families. Members of certain races, such as Native Americans, Asians and Latinos, are more likely to have clefts than other races. People of African descent are less likely to have clefts.
3. Prepare for Complications
Various complications may accompany a cleft palate. One of the major concerns is feeding a baby with a cleft palate. Fortunately, there are techniques and special bottles to assist in this process. Another concern is hearing and ear infections. Babies with cleft palates are at increased risk for developing ear infections and subsequent hearing loss. In addition to hearing problems, clefts can affect speech and tooth development. Given the aforementioned problems, treatment involves a wide range of professionals including a plastic surgeon, otolaryngologist, oral surgeon, orthodontist, dentist, speech pathologist and audiologist.
4. Close the Gap With Surgery
Surgery is the main treatment for oral-facial clefts. Optimally, a child with a cleft lip undergoes surgery between birth and 3 months. In any case, initial cleft palate surgery should occur before the child's first birthday. Additional surgeries are likely into the teen years. Often, children with a cleft palate also have surgery to place tubes in their ears. This reduces the likelihood of repeat infections. In utero repair of cleft lips and palates is on the horizon.
5. Navigate Social Issues
Sadly, children with cleft lips and palates often experience teasing, which jeopardizes self-esteem. When teasing occurs, parents should talk with their child openly and role-play appropriate responses. Boost self-esteem by fostering activities that emphasize the child's strengths. Parents shouldn't allow the cleft to define the child; instead, the focus should be on the child as a whole person. Parents should encourage friendships with compassionate individuals who treat the child with respect.
