Patients And Families
Smile Train aims to support cleft-affected families worldwide by creating, connecting, and sharing resources about comprehensive cleft care.
Comprehensive Cleft Care Areas
Explore our site to find invaluable advice and resources.
Cleft Care at Home
Comprehensive cleft care does not only happen at your local Smile Train partner treatment center. It is so important for children and caretakers to have access to resources related to their cleft care at home. Smile Train is dedicated to creating a variety of resources to meet every need.
Understanding Cleft
Families should consult their local cleft team for information on the possible causes of their child's cleft.
Feeding and Nutrition
Because clefts can affect children's ability to suck and swallow, nutrition services are essential to ensure they receive proper nutrition.
Surgery
Cleft lip surgery can happen as early as age three months and cleft palate surgery at nine months.
Hearing Services
Children with cleft palates are susceptible to hearing loss. Early screenings and simple treatments such as ear tubes are important preventative services.
Dental and Orthodontics
Clefts increase susceptibility to dental anomalies and malposition, increasing risks for tooth decay and gum disease. It is important to start early with pediatric dental care involving caregivers and trained professionals.
Speech Services
Clefts can hamper the development of speech and language habits. Caregivers should receive early guidance on how to work with their child at home, and children should be screened regularly to see if they require therapy.
Counseling and Support
It is important for families to work alongside their cleft team to address any challenges so their children can develop confidence and self-esteem.
Financial Assistance
Cleft care can be expensive.
Value of Comprehensive Cleft Care
The Journey
A child's journey to a healthy live starts with a smile…but that can only be the beginning. Access to comprehensive care gives children with clefts the best chance at a healthy, productive life.
Comprehensive cleft care
Comprehensive cleft care ensures that all aspects of a child's physical and emotional health are attended to throughout their life.
Comprehensive cleft care brings cleft care professionals together
Comprehensive cleft care brings cleft professionals from different disciplines together to offer treatment in the most impactful and cost-effective way, not only for the child, but also their family.