Where does cleft palate occur?

Cleft palate occurs when there is an incomplete fusion of the tissues that form the roof of the mouth (palate) during early fetal development. This condition can affect the hard palate (the bony front part) and/or the soft palate (the muscular back part) and can occur on one or both sides. It may be associated with a cleft lip, but not always. Cleft palate is one of the most common congenital conditions affecting the oral cavity.