The Effects of Palatal Expansion on Speech Articulation in Children With Unilateral Versus Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

Key Points

• To investigate the impact of palatal expansion on speech articulation in children with unilateral and bilateral cleft lip and palate.
• Assessed self-perceived speech measures before and after palatal expansion.
• Evaluated acoustic speech measures using quantitative analysis.
• Compared outcomes between children with unilateral and bilateral cleft lip and palate.
• Self-perceived measures reported adverse effects on speech post-expansion.
• Acoustic outcomes varied significantly between unilateral and bilateral cleft types.
• Clinical implications suggest the need for careful counseling regarding treatment effects.