What is Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM)?
Depending on the width of the cleft and the presence or absence of a cleft palate, a short period of reshaping the mouth and nose may be recommended. NAM is a technique in which the alveolus (gum ridges) and/or nose are molded with an appliance similar to an orthodontic retainer. This is usually done by a specially trained orthodontist prior to surgery, in order to make surgery simpler. The baby wears the appliance 24 hours a day for a period of weeks or months. It does not interfere with feeding or breathing for the baby.
