Jaw deformities are a relatively common birth defect that affect millions of newborn children each year. These conditions may include a cleft lip, a cleft mouth palate, or other structural issues with the jaw. It is extremely important to have your child treated for these conditions when they are young so they can eat, drink, and learn to speak properly. While many corrective surgeries for jaw deformities can be drastic, corrective surgery for a cleft lip is relatively simple and can be done shortly after an affected child is born.

What is a Cleft Lip?

A cleft lip is a jaw deformity that can be described as an improper development of the upper lip and the skin tissue that connects to the nose. Instead of the tissue developing as it does in most people, the affected child’s upper lip forms with a V-shaped split that begins at the upper lip and extends to the nose. Corrective surgery is important because it will improve a kid’s life quality immensely.

How is a Cleft Lip Corrected?

A cleft lip can be corrected through a surgery that seals the cleft, creating a natural appearance and providing optimal functionality. This corrective surgery is important to improve your child’s ability to eat, drink, and speak properly, while also reducing their increased chance of developing gum disease or tooth loss.

Talk to your dentist at Briggs Family Dentistry for more information about cleft lips and other jaw deformities.