Nasoalveolar Moulding (NAM)
Nasoalveolar Moulding (NAM) is a non-surgical orthopedic treatment used in infants born with cleft lip and palate. It helps shape and align the gums, lips, and nose before cleft lip and palate surgery, improving the outcome of the eventual repair. At Elegance Superspeciality Dental & Maxillofacial Clinic, we offer NAM therapy as a vital step toward successful and aesthetic cleft lip and palate repair.
What is NAM?
NAM involves the use of a custom-made acrylic moulding plate that gently guides the growth of the infant’s gums and nasal cartilage during the early weeks of life. It is typically started within the first 1–2 weeks after birth and continued for several months until the child is ready for cleft lip surgery.
This pre-surgical technique helps minimize the cleft gap, aligning the tissue and bone for better surgical outcomes. It also reduces the severity of nasal deformities, leading to improved before-and-after cleft lip and palate surgery results.
Benefits of NAM in Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
- Reduces the width of the cleft
- Shapes the nasal cartilage for symmetry
- Decreases the complexity of surgical repair
- Enhances final aesthetic and functional results
- Lowers the need for secondary nasal revisions
Risks and Considerations in Nasoalveolar Moulding
NAM is non-invasive and generally safe when managed by a trained specialist. Minor issues like mouth sores or plate dislodgement may occur but are easily manageable. Parental commitment to regular clinic visits (usually weekly) is essential for adjustments and monitoring.
When to Start and Consult a Specialist for Nasovascular Moulding
NAM should ideally be started within the first 2 weeks of birth. If your newborn has a visible cleft lip and/or palate, early consultation with a cleft team is crucial. Early NAM significantly improves surgical outcomes in cleft lip and palate repair.
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Led by a Board Certified Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon with 20+ years of experience.
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FAQ
What is NAM in cleft lip and palate repair?
NAM is a non-surgical presurgical orthopedic therapy that helps align the gums and nose in infants with cleft lip and palate.
How early should NAM be started?
It is best started within the first 1–2 weeks after birth for optimal effectiveness.
Does NAM replace cleft surgery?
No, NAM prepares the tissues to improve outcomes of cleft lip and palate surgery.
What are the benefits of NAM?
It improves symmetry, reduces surgical complexity, and enhances before and after cleft lip and palate surgery outcomes.
Is NAM covered in cleft lip surgery cost in India?
In many centers, NAM is part of a comprehensive cleft treatment plan, but the cost of cleft lip and palate surgery in India may vary depending on the clinic and duration of NAM therapy.
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Elegance Superspeciality Dental Clinic
210, Trinity business Park,
Madhuvan Circle,
LP Savani Rd,
Adajan, Surat, Gujarat 395009