THE FIRST PRACTICE IN COLORADO!
OFFERING ROBOT ASSISTED SURGERY WITH YOMI®.
Yomi is only FDA Cleared Robotic device for oral surgery
cleft palate
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One of the most common genetic deformities affecting the face is a cleft palate, cleft lip, or both. This type of facial irregularity occurs during pregnancy when there is not enough tissue present in the mouth or lip area for it to join properly before the baby is born. This condition may be due to genetics or an isolated birth defect, but a surgical procedure can restore appearance and function. The severity varies; it can be as minor as a small notch in the upper lip to as severe as a large gap extending through the lip and gum into the nose.
Several risk factors may increase the likelihood of an infant being born with this condition:
- Family history of cleft lips or cleft palates
- Exposure to substances such as smoking or consuming alcohol during pregnancy
- Gender – Males are more likely to be born with a cleft lip, but females are more likely to be born with a cleft palate
- Race – This condition is most common in children with Asian and American Indian heritage
- Obesity during pregnancy
Prenatal ultrasounds during pregnancy may reveal a cleft lip or cleft palate.
Aside from the aesthetic issues, children with a cleft lip or palate face many other day-to-day functional problems.
- Dental Problems. The presence of this condition increases the risk of cavities in children and can cause missing, extra, or displaced teeth. Oftentimes, extensive orthodontic treatment is necessary.
- Ear Infections and Hearing Loss. Children who have a cleft palate are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear; therefore, they are at a higher risk for ear infections, which can ultimately cause hearing loss if left untreated. Many children need special drainage tubes in their eardrums and must undergo annual hearing checks.
- Trouble Speaking. Children with a cleft palate or a cleft lip typically experience difficulty pronouncing words or carrying their voice, and it is common for their voices to be a higher pitch with a strong nasal component.
- Difficulty Eating. A cleft palate can make it difficult for children to chew and eat properly.
How is a cleft lip or palate treated?
The fortunate news is that most children with a cleft lip or palate can regain normal functions through surgery, therapy, or both. Children frequently undergo a series of surgeries as they age to guide the lip and palate into their proper, fully developed positions.
Treatment for a cleft lip aims to eliminate the separation and restore balance and function to the upper lip. The first procedure is usually performed when the patient is 1–4 months of age. Additional surgeries may be needed starting at age 2 and continuing into the later teen years, depending on the specific condition. Further treatment, such as hearing aids or speech therapy, may be recommended as well.
Dr. Kunkel’s experience at Riley Children’s Hospital on the cleft lip and palate team, make him highly qualified to treat a variety of conditions associated with cleft lip and palate. If you are in need of a consultation to repair this facial defect, please contact Pikes Peak Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center.
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View all ServicesTHE FIRST PRACTICE IN COLORADO!
OFFERING ROBOT ASSISTED SURGERY WITH YOMI®.
Yomi is only FDA Cleared Robotic device for oral surgery
Why us
My name is Chris Mussone, DDS, and my practice name is my name: Christopher Mussone, DDS, Family Dentist. I refer to Dr. Kunkel because I have a lot of confidence in him. I feel that when I send patients his way that they're going to come back happy. I send patients over here most often for implants and extractions. So when I send Dr. Kunkel patients, they’re patients that I see generally for life. So, I trust him to treat my patients the way I would want them treated in my office. When my patients come back to me, they generally feel that Dr. Kunkel’s office has treated them well and that he has followed up in an appropriate manner, and they’ve had no problems.
- Dr. Mussone
why us
why us
When choosing an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in the Colorado Springs area, we know that patients want to find an oral surgeon and surgical team that they feel comfortable with and trust to provide extraordinary care.
Dr. Michael Kunkel and his experienced surgical and office staff are a knowledgeable and compassionate group of individuals who want to provide you with an outstanding experience in our office. Our entire team works together to ensure that every patient receives optimal results following surgery.
They are ready to answer your questions regarding appointment preparation, treatment, office policies, and coordination of care with your regular restorative dentist.
Our office utilizes a state-of-the-art surgical suite, digital imaging, and houses full instrument sterilization facilities to ensure our patient’s safety during every procedure. We use the latest surgical techniques and materials to provide our patients with the highest standard of care.
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3475 BRIARGATE BLVD, #102
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80920
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT
Call our office to schedule an appointment for any procedure.
(719) 264 - 6070 | Main