One out of 1,000 babies is born with a form of a cleft, split or separation in the mouth or lip. Surgery to repair the congenital maxillofacial defect is performed on children when they are between 6 and 12 months old. The operation takes about two hours and uses general anesthesia.
At the office of Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA, we are experts at diagnosing your child’s dental issues as well as providing the treatment needed to maintain his or her excellent oral health. Everyone here will take as much time as you need to address your and your child’s every concern and explain your options in care.
Mothers who want to breastfeed their babies until the surgery can do so. Children with the imperfection have a hard time physically connecting with a breast. Or, they simply can’t produce enough suction. Separated palates and lips can let the milk leak through their nostrils. The severity of the cleft influences the amount of suction a baby can create.
Here are ways that can help your baby suckle sufficiently, if not successfully.
Consult with a breastfeeding specialist to ascertain the positions that create the best suction. You and the expert will also establish if your infant is “dummy sucking” (latched but not swallowing) and determine how to promote the easiest sucking and swallowing.
For better support, use a nipple shield (a protective cap or dome) with a hole that is bigger or has a different shape.
Not all infants can be breastfed, but depending on the position and size of the cleft, a bottle with a scoop or distinctively shaped nipple may be used.
Whether he’s being breastfed or not, you must maintain your baby’s oral hygiene. Because children don’t produce much saliva until after they are 1 to 2 months old, it’s crucial to use a soft, damp, clean cloth to wipe their mouths after each feeding. Those with a form of cleft, split or separation in the mouth or lip need special care for the sensitive tissue and area around the split.
Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA has friendly, highly trained professionals who are eager to help you and your child feel relaxed while receiving the very best in care. For more information about how we can help your child, please don’t hesitate to call us to schedule an appointment.
By Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA
January 2, 2024
Blog Posts
