Did you know that 1 in 700 babies are born with a cleft lip and palate in the United States alone?
What is a cleft lip and palate, and what causes it?
A cleft lip and palate is one or more splits in the upper lip that often extends to the roof of the mouth. There is no clear evidence of what causes cleft lip and palate, but doctors and researchers believe it is attributed to genetic and environmental factors. It normally occurs early in pregnancy when the tissues do not fuse together properly, therefore causing a gap.
Problems associated with cleft lip and palate:
- Eating problems in infancy and early childhood.
- More susceptible to ear infections and hearing loss.
- Trouble with pronunciation and speech.
- Dental problems that may need to be corrected through years of treatment.
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