18555 N 79th Ave Suite A-103
Glendale, AZ 85308-8370
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OMS Role in Cleft Lip and Palate Repair

Posted on 7/1/2024 by Dr. Michael Allard

Woman smiling while at oral surgeon's office

A cleft lip and/or palate occurs when parts of the lip or roof of the mouth do not fuse together properly during fetal development, leaving an open space or cleft. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMS) play a key role in the multidisciplinary repair of cleft defects.

Cleft Lip Repair

OMS surgically closes the separation in the upper lip, usually around 3-6 months of age. This restores normal lip appearance and function. The incisions are placed within the natural creases of the lip for optimal healing and scar camouflage.

Cleft Palate Repair

Between the ages of 9 and 12 months, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) performs a palatoplasty operation to close the cleft or opening in the roof of the mouth. This surgery enables proper speech development and feeding. In cases where the gap is particularly wide, tissue grafts may be necessary.

Bone Grafting Procedures

OMS performs bone grafting in the cleft area, often around ages 8-11. This stabilizes the jaw, aids tooth eruption, and supports the nose and cheeks. Common sites for bone harvesting include the hip, skull, and jaw.

Orthodontic Treatment

Oral surgeons work with orthodontists to straighten teeth and align the jaw segments affected by the cleft. Over several years, expanders, braces, and retainers have been used to ensure proper tooth positioning.

Rhinoplasty

The nasal deformity associated with a cleft lip can be corrected through rhinoplasty performed by an OMS. This reconstructs the nose for proper shape, function, and appearance. Rhinoplasty is typically done after the teenage years when the nose is fully grown.

Speech Therapy

OMS coordinates with speech therapists for cleft palate patients. Therapy helps improve articulation, resonance, and nasal air emission problems that can occur with cleft defects.

OMS surgically repairs lip and palate deformities in cleft patients and coordinates multidisciplinary aftercare involving bone grafting, orthodontics, rhinoplasty, and speech therapy. Contact our office to learn more about how we can help your child with cleft lip or palate.

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Wed - Thu: 7:00am–4:00pm
Friday: 7:00am–3:00pm

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Referring Doctors

Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 18555 N 79th Ave, Suite A-103, Glendale, AZ 85308-8370, (623) 738-2564, arrowheadoralsurgery.com, 12/4/2024, Page Terms:Dental Implants Glendale AZ,