Learning About Cleft Palate with Dr. Carlos Nebelett

Did you know that Cleft lip and/or cleft palate are among the most common birth defects? The conditions can happen “when the tissues that are supposed to form the palate fail to do so…” – When an opening or a split occurs in the upper lip, the roof of the mouth (palate), or both, It shows that facial structures developing in an unborn baby were not closed completely; which affects one or both sides of the face.

In this Health Alert, we will focus on Cleft lip and/or cleft palate. How are newborns affected and what are the symptoms? Dr. Carlos Nebelett helps us understand all we need to know.

When do you need to see the ‘doctor’?

Doctors are called immediately after the condition is identified – usually immediately after birth. Based on the stage, the child may need a Speech-language pathologist, dentist, or surgeon, or both. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Nebelett also mentioned securing mental health (for the parents/family or the child) as it can have a toll on the individual over time.

Why are babies born with Cleft Lip and/ or Cleft Palates?

The mother’s lifestyle can contribute to the child being born with the condition, as well as it can be hereditary.

Reasons for Cleft Palate are unknown, but can it be corrected? Watch the full interview below:

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