What is the difference between a cleft lip and palate?

Quick anatomy lesson: Clefts can be unilateral or bilateral (on one side or both sides). Clefts (splits) can involve lip only, the palate only, or both. A cleft lip is simply a surgical problem, which involves the lip and the nose. A cleft palate often contributes to problem with teeth, swallowing, speech, ear infections, etc. A team approach is important for best outcomes when cleft palate is present.

Cosmetic vfunctional: While a cleft lip is essentially a cosmetic problem, a cleft palate is more of a functional disorder effecting speech, swallowing, dentition and hearing.

Related but separate: A cleft, in general, refers to the incomplete or complete fusion of tissue during embryo development. A cleft lip refers to the incomplete or complete fusion of the upper lip skin and muscle, whereas the palate is the hard and soft tissue at the roof of the mouth. These structures are separate but can be associated with each other.

Location, location: A cleft palate is just that, a clefting isolated to the palate. A cleft lip is isolated to the lip. People can have one or the other or both.

Gap in lip or mouth: A cleft lip is a gap in the upper lip on one or both sides. A cleft palate is a hole in the roof of the mouth, either in the back near the uvula, or going forward all the way to the gum line. You can have either cleft lip or palate, or both.