Many babies are born with unique situations such as cleft palates or other challenges. Modern medicine and research has made it so that today these children can get the help they need and move forward with their lives in a positive manner. If your child has a cleft palate you may be wondering what you next steps forward are going to be. Below are tips for helping you move forward and ensure your child gets the proper care they need.
The cleft palete and lip come with obstacles that may seem overwhelming. There is the obvious physical deformity, which could result in feeding difficulties that must be faced. There are often speech and language problems. Specialized dental care is often required, with a number of surgeries and therapies that are ahead. While at first glance, the future may appear bleak, the truth is that for most of these babies, they can live healthy, productive, normal lives with a little scarring the only reminder of the cleft palate. Here are four steps that parents can take on that road to recovery.
- Surgery
Find doctors that specialize in the treatment of cleft palete. Parents might want to consider visiting medical professionals like those found at Shriners Hospitals for Children in Cincinnati. Shriners Hospitals for Children is a leader in the field of cleft palete repair and pediatric plastic surgery. This facility has been recognized for providing outstanding care to patients.
Treatment requires a number of surgeries over a period of several years. It is important to have the child treated at a facility offering specialized care in the treatment of cleft palates.
- Feeding
Feeding problems are common in children born with a cleft palete. Initially, feeding the baby seems challenging. However, for most of these children, it is one of the easiest obstacles to overcome. Luckily there are various bottles and feeding options that can accommodate the needs of a child born with a cleft palate.
- Dental Care
Dental problems are common for these children. It is important that these children see a pediatric dentist specializing in cleft palates. He will monitor growth and development and treat as necessary. This is important for the health of your child now, and the health of their mouth and teeth in the future. By working with professionals you will be able to help your child get the proper care they need for healthy teeth down the road as well.
- Speech And Language Assistance
Speech difficulties are common in these children. A speech-language pathologist is often needed to evaluate speech and language skills and to recommend any necessary treatment plan.
A cleft lip or palate can be concerning. However, with proper care and treatment, children born with cleft palates are often able to overcome them and still have a very fulfilling life. Take the time to talk with your child’s health care providers. Ask them questions. Together, you will form a team that can make all the difference in the life of your child.