Orthodontics isn’t just about straightening teeth—it’s a big part of helping these kids.
Orthodontists use special tools like expanders to gently widen the palate, which not only straightens teeth but also encourages bone growth, closing the gap in the mouth. Sometimes, they team up with surgeons to add bone where it’s needed.
Dental procedures for cleft lip and palate patients may include:
- Palatal expansion to widen the palate.
- Bone grafting to fill gaps in the jawbone.
- Orthodontic braces to align teeth.
- Surgical correction of the cleft lip and palate.
- Speech therapy to address any speech difficulties.
These procedures, combined with orthodontic treatment, help improve the overall function and appearance of the mouth for affected individuals.
It’s not just about fixing teeth; it’s about giving these children a chance to smile, talk, and eat without worry. And with new technology, treatments keep getting better, offering hope for a brighter future for these little ones.
