What type of NAM is done at Children's?

We use the negative sculpturing passive molding technique described by Drs. Grayson and Cutting. Our surgical technique takes advantage of nasoalveolar molding by decreasing the size of the incisions and scars and the amount of surgery.

In select cases, a gingivoperiosteoplasty can be performed to completely close the cleft in the gum at the time of the surgery.

Doing a GPP at the time of the lip surgery can prevent the need for a future alveolar bone graft (gum surgery) in approximately half of the children. Not all children undergoing NAM are good candidates for a GPP.

We will provide more information on NAM and discuss if it is appropriate for your child.

An orthodontist, a plastic surgeon and a nurse practitioner specially trained in NAM are available for questions between visits.

Although your child will come to the orthodontist for adjustments to the molding plate about once a week, they will still be followed as closely as necessary by the rest of the multidisciplinary team at the Craniofacial Center during regular clinic visits.