It is a craniofacial, oral, and dental birth defect in which there is an opening in a structure around the mouth and face. The causes of this problem are both environmental and genetic. A cleft lip can range in severity from a simple notch in the upper lip to a complete opening in the lip, extending into the floor of the nostril. The upper gums may be involved. Clefts can occur on one or both sides, and with or without involvement of the palate.
Orofacial clefts occur during the fourth to tenth week of fetal development.
Children born with cleft lip and palate have special health care needs due to early feeding concerns, middle ear disease, problems with speech, dentofacial abnormalities, and orthodontic problems. Dental exam at 6 months. Palate closure at 18 months. Speech therapy from 6 to 11 years. Early orthodontic treatment from 7 to 8 years.