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Orthodontics isn't just about straight teeth. It's about transforming lives. For those born with cleft lip and/or palate, this transformation is not just cosmetic, but deeply personal and functionally life-changing. Whether your child was born with a cleft lip, cleft palate, or both, we provide compassionate care that can help them achieve a healthy, functional smile. Dr. Jewell is a member of the Cleft and Craniofacial team at the Overland Park Regional Medical center. As a part of this team she performs newborn evaluations, prenatal consultations, and provides Nasoaveolar Molding for infants born with a cleft lip or palate and evaluates the needs of the patient for extractions, braces and whether or not they would benefit from eventual jaw surgery.
DID YOU KNOW?
About 1 in every 1600 babies are born with Cleft Lip & Palate in the U.S
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Why does my child need Orthodontic Treatment for Cleft Lip & Palate?
Orthodontic treatment is crucial for children with cleft lip and palate for several reasons. First, it helps align their teeth properly, enhancing their ability to eat and speak effectively. Secondly, it significantly improves their facial appearance, boosting their self-esteem and overall quality of life. Moreover, this treatment aids in preparing them for any additional surgeries, if required. Dr. Jewell works with patients as young as infants who are born with cleft lip and palate, beginning with treatments like naseoalveolar molding to prepare them for their initial surgery, and continues to see them throughout their entire orthodontic journey. Orthodontic treatment is a vital part of a comprehensive treatment plan ensuring your child's healthy development and wellbeing.
Network of Specialists
Dr. Jewell is part of a hospital team of interdisciplinary specialists to ensure our patients receive the best care available.
Craniofacial Care
Dr. Jewell is experienced in treating a variety of conditions that affect the skull, face, and bite, including cleft lip & palate.
Pre-Surgical Orthodontics
Prior to oral surgery, orthodontic treatment is often required to properly align the bite and ensure surgery goes according to plan.
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The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for Cleft Lip & Palate
Enhanced Speech Clarity
Orthodontic treatment can significantly improve speech clarity, enabling clearer communication and boosting self-confidence.
Improved Facial Symmetry
Treatment helps achieve improved facial symmetry, enhancing aesthetics and contributing to a healthy self-image.
Optimized Oral Function
Orthodontics can optimize oral function, easing everyday tasks like eating and breathing.
The Cleft Lip & Palate Orthodontic Treatment Process
Consultation & Treatment Planning
You and your child will meet with Dr. Jewell for an exam and consultation. Dr. Jewell will get to know your child, and work closely with their surgical team to create a treatment plan that complements past or future surgical intervention, all with the aim of providing the patient with a beautiful, fully functional smile and bite.
Orthodontic Treatment
Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment for patients with a cleft lip and palate. Dr. Jewell will carefully place brackets on the patient’s teeth, and affix a wire to them. Your child will return for regular adjustments to ensure the teeth are moving as planned.
Ongoing Care
Because a cleft lip and palate can present such a wide variety of challenges, your child’s treatment plan will be unique to their needs. This could include surgical intervention, such as bone grafting, as well as a combination of restorative dental procedures like crowns, bridges, or even dental implants. Dr. Jewell will work closely with a team of specialists to ensure your child achieves a smile they can wear with comfort and confidence!
Before & Afters
stop scrolling and start straightening!
Frequently Asked Questions
Options For Every Budget
We understand that orthodontic treatment can be a big investment. That’s why we offer a variety of flexible solutions to help you finance treatment on your terms.
