How Does Cleft Palate Affect Speech

Children with a cleft that affects their soft palate (the part towards the back of the throat) may have problems with speech that include sounding nasal. This is caused by the soft palate not being able to properly close off the mouth from the nose while speaking and therefore letting air escape through the nose.

Can cleft palate cause speech problems?

Children with a cleft that affects their soft palate (the part towards the back of the throat) may have problems with speech that include sounding nasal. This is caused by the soft palate not being able to properly close off the mouth from the nose while speaking and therefore letting air escape through the nose.

How does palate affect speech?

How does a cleft palate affect speech? The soft palate (the part towards your throat) moves upwards and backwards when you talk. This is part of how your nose is separated from your mouth – your soft palate moves to make sure no air escapes through your nose when you make certain sounds.