We treat speech-language problems

CLEFT LIP/PALATE

A cleft lip is an opening in the upper lip which can be small or extend from the lip to the side of the nose. Clefts of the lip can be unilateral (found on one side of the face) or bilateral (found on both sides of the face).

A cleft palate is an opening in the roof of the mouth. Clefts of the palate can range from a small hole to a large opening across the roof of the mouth. Individuals with a cleft palate may not be able to close off the nose from the mouth while drinking or talking. This condition is known as velopharyngeal insufficiency or VPI.

Clefts occur before birth while the baby is forming, typically during the first trimester of pregnancy. Sometimes clefts run in families; some clefts occur with other problems. Most clefts are corrected with surgery, although it may require more than one surgery to completely close the cleft.

Clefts of the lip in the absence of a cleft of the palate may not result in any speech difficulty; however clefts of the palate can result in a number of problems. The child may have difficulty feeding as a baby, may sound as if he/she is speaking out of his/her nose, may not say all speech sounds correctly, and may be hard for the listener to understand, or make snorting and grunting noises when talking. Children who have a cleft of the palate may also experience increased ear infections, dental problems, hearing loss or other learning problems.

If your child has had surgery to repair a cleft lip or palate, the professionals at C.C.I.C., Inc. can help to improve their communication skills.

Call our main office central intake number to schedule an appointment. 513-771-7655