A cleft palate is a congenital condition where there is an opening or gap in the roof of the mouth. This occurs when the tissues that form the palate do not fully come together during early fetal development. It can affect the hard palate, soft palate, or both, leading to difficulties with feeding, speech, and ear infections. Treatment for a cleft palate typically involves surgery to close the gap, which is often performed in infancy. Additional therapies, such as speech therapy, may be necessary to help children develop normal speech patterns. Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes in affected individuals.