Cleft Lip and Palate Prosthetics in Scottsdale, AZ

Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate

Cleft lip and cleft palate are two common but markedly different birth defects that affect about one in every 700 newborns. These developmental deformities occur in the first trimester of a woman’s pregnancy; cleft lip in week seven, and cleft palate in week nine. Cleft lip and cleft palate occur simultaneously in about half of all cases, and separately in approximately a quarter of all cases.

A cleft lip is essentially a separation of the two sides of the lip. In many cases, this separation will include the bone and gum of the upper jaw. A cleft palate occurs when the sides of the palate fail to “fuse” as the fetus is developing, which results in an opening in the roof of the mouth.

The cleft deformities are categorized according to their location in the mouth and the size of the defect.

Unilateral Incomplete: A cleft on only one side of the mouth that does not extend as far as the nostril.
Unilateral Complete: A cleft on only one side of the mouth that extends into the corresponding nostril.
Bilateral Complete: Larger clefts affecting both sides of the mouth which each extend as far as the nostril.
Microform Cleft: A mild case of cleft lip which may simply form a bump on the lip, or a small scar line extending toward the nostril.

Reasons for cleft lip and cleft palate correction

Cleft lip and cleft palate are highly treatable deformities, though it may take a whole team of different specialists to fully treat the condition. The prognosis for sufferers who receive corrective treatment is excellent; medically, physically, dentally, and emotionally. There are however, a series of risks for those who do not receive corrective treatment:

Speech – Children born with either cleft deformity are likely to experience speech problems unless treatment is sought. Speech problems are detrimental to a child’s social and emotional development.
Feeding – Babies with a cleft palate or a complete cleft lip have problems drinking milk. The gap means that liquids can pass from the mouth to the nasal cavity. This can be dangerous unless the child is fed sitting upright.
Hearing Loss & Frequent Ear Infections – A cleft palate can cause the eustachian tubes (connecting the throat to the ear) to be incorrectly positioned. The fluid build up which results from this poor positioning can lead to painful middle ear infections. Severe and prolonged ear infections can lead to complete hearing loss.
Dental Issues – Abnormalities in the upper jaw, gum, or arch can cause teeth to become impacted (unable to erupt) or absent completely. The shape of the mouth might not permit proper brushing which can lead to periodontal disease and tooth decay.

What does cleft lip and cleft palate treatment involve?

Initially, surgeons will work to close the cleft openings in the first six months of the child’s life. Unfortunately, this does not cure the dental problems that occur as a result of cleft lip and cleft palate defects. It is common for teeth in the cleft area to be missing or need to be removed at surgery. We are seeing more and more adult cleft patients who are seeking restoration of missing teeth they have dealt with their entire lives. Dr. Bleeker will perform a thorough examination of the teeth surrounding the deformity and make any indicated recommendations to restore the teeth in question.

The combination of dental implants and orthodontics are commonly used to achieve an ideal result for the adult cleft patient. The ultimate goal is to restore function, eliminate any oral-sinus communication and improve the appearance of the smile.

Dr. Bleeker is a member of the craniofacial team at Barrows, St Joseph’s Hospital. Please contact our office if you would like to be evaluated by the craniofacial team.

If your child was born with any cleft deformity, we strongly encourage you to contact our office to schedule a consultation.

Facial Trauma Reconstruction

Head and Neck Radiation

Maxillofacial Prosthetics

Prosthodontics

What is a Maxillofacial Prosthodontist?

What is a Prosthodontist?

Reviews

What our patients are saying

    
 
 
      Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a patient of Dr. Bleeker’s for many years, and it has always been a pleasure to be under his care. His professionalism is truly beyond the highest standard. He consistently demonstrates exceptional skill, integrity, and genuine concern for his patients. Several years ago, I had veneers placed, and they performed beautifully without any issues for many years.  When one of the veneered teeth later came off, Dr. Bleeker recommended placing a full crown, which worked perfectly. About a week later, a second tooth veneer came loose. Rather than simply replacing it, he chose to place another full crown to ensure a stronger, longer-lasting result. What impressed me most was that both crowns were provided free of charge—far beyond what I ever expected. Dr. Bleeker truly went above and beyond to stand behind his work and ensure I was completely satisfied. I am incredibly grateful for his dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence. I highly recommend Dr. Bleeker to anyone seeking outstanding dental care.
  
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   William Mcardle 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am a general dentist in Phoenix and I needed Dr Bleeker’s help with a complex denture where my patient had to have his mandibular bone removed and replaced with a leg bone. I successfully help my patients with dentures in my office, but this particular case was beyond my skill level. Dr Bleeker has been exactly what this patient needed—knowledgeable, kind, easy to work with, and full of solutions. I will definitely refer other complex patients to Dr Bleeker.
  
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   Paul Nielson 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been to quite a few dentists in my time. I have implants and crowns and hands down Dr. Bleeker and his fabulous assistant, Cheryl make it worthwhile to drive from the Biltmore area to North Scottsdale. I highly recommend this dental practice.
  
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   Sherrie Kelly 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best office ever! Dr Bleeker is so talented and Cheryl and Melinda are so knowledgeable and kind! Always leave there laughing and having a great time!!!!
  
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   Interiors professional 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I met Dr Bleeker on a referral; I was able To get right away because of a cancellation. I love the easy manner Dr Bleeker has and how relaxed he is. His PA Cheryl is very professional, however, she will always make you smile. They have all the latest technology including lasers for healing and Yomi for robotic surgery implant placement.
  
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   Beverly Schwartz 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very clean office great atmosphere! Very professional staff! Dr Bleeker is very artistic
  
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   Lyn Chi 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is the best place  to go for any and all dental work!  The staff and the doctor know what they’re doing. I can’t believe the difference in knowledge, experience and technology that they have. Just don’t go anywhere else you will regret it. That’s what happened to me…all of the time and money I  wasted at these other dental offices ..I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Bleeker and his staff.
  
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Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate in Scottsdale, AZ

Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate

Reasons for cleft lip and cleft palate correction

What does cleft lip and cleft palate treatment involve?

Reviews

What our patients are saying

Let’s Talk About Your Smile Goals

Monday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday	8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday	Closed
Sunday	Closed