If your child was born with a cleft lip and palate, it's especially important to keep up on all aspects of their oral health - including orthodontics! As a member of the Inland Empire Maxillofacial Team, Dr. C Orthodontics helps in the management and treatment of patients with cleft lip and palate in the greater Spokane area.
Using an interdisciplinary approach, the team at Dr. C Orthodontics works with each patient to create customized care plans designed to keep children's smiles free of pain, misalignment, tooth decay, and more.
Orthodontics for Cleft Lip & Palate in Early Childhood
When young patients have a cleft that may affect the alignment of their teeth, it's best to connect with an orthodontist early on to plan for future smile treatments.
The requirement of orthodontic treatment typically depends on the placement of the child's cleft. If the cleft affects the gums and the alveolus (a socket within the jawbone where the teeth are set), the patient may require a bone graft surgery before their adult teeth are set, typically between the ages of 8-12.
The surgery helps fill gaps in the gums and may require orthodontic treatment before it can be completed. Children may need to wear braces for a period of time before the procedure, to widen the area of the mouth surrounding the cleft for easier access. If you are considering Alveolar Bone Graft Surgery for your child, contact us to schedule your orthodontic consultation and find out if braces will help your child best prepare for the procedure!
Orthodontics for Cleft Lip & Palate in Adolescence
An orthodontic consultation in the adolescent stage can help assess any oral concerns your child may have, including smile irregularities, missing teeth, bite misalignment, and more. After the majority of the adult teeth have grown in, orthodontics can help address these concerns with and realign the teeth with braces, Invisalign, or corrective jaw surgery.
At your orthodontic consultation, our team will take the time to answer questions, address any concerns you may have, and form the best treatment plan for your adolescent's unique needs!
Schedule Your Child's Consultation Today!
Orthodontic treatment can help treat and manage the effects of a cleft lip and palate! At your consultation, our doctors will make expert recommendations to help your child maintain a healthy, happy smile. Call us today for your cleft palate treatment consultation!