Bifid Uvula: Treatment and Prevention
Because the condition is sometimes caused by factors out of your control, like genetics, it’s not always preventable. To reduce your child’s risk of developing bifid uvula, avoid behaviors that can increase your risk of your child developing congenital conditions, like smoking, drinking, or consuming drugs during pregnancy. If this concerns you, it’s a good idea to ease your worries by speaking with your medical professional.
Luckily, most children with bifid uvula will not require treatment if they do not have hypernasal speech, according to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Some parents may also choose to pursue treatment in cases where their child has extreme difficulty feeding or speaking. If your child does require treatment, it is typically a simple procedure to connect the palate or uvula that did not properly fuse during development.
If you believe your child has bifid uvula, it’s a smart bet to schedule a visit with a professional. Fortunately, you have a wealth of options to choose from, including dental professionals, genetics counselors, psychologists, speech therapists, otolaryngologists, and your regular medical professional.
You’ve made a great choice to read up on this rare and often benign condition. If you think your child has or could have bifid uvula, it’s a safe choice to check in with your dental or medical professional to see if they believe further diagnosis or treatment is needed by a specialist. You’re now prepared with information around this condition and what potential issues it's associated with.