High Arched Palate Concerns in Newborns
Medically reviewed by Dr. Michael Okonkwo, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Neonatologist
Content reviewed against published AAP, NIH guidelines
Last reviewed:
If your baby has been diagnosed with or you suspect high arched palate concerns in newborns, here is what the evidence says.
The short answer
A high arched palate (roof of the mouth) in a newborn can sometimes contribute to feeding difficulties because the baby may have trouble compressing the breast or bottle nipple effectively. Many babies with a high palate feed successfully with positioning adjustments, and the palate shape often changes as the baby grows. In some cases, a high palate is associated with other conditions that your pediatrician may evaluate.
Key takeaways
- A high arched palate (roof of the mouth) in a newborn can sometimes contribute to feeding difficulties because the baby may have trouble compressing the breast or bottle nipple effectively. Many babies with a high palate feed successfully with positioning adjustments, and the palate shape often changes as the baby grows. In some cases, a high palate is associated with other conditions that your pediatrician may evaluate.
- Usually normal when: A slightly high or arched palate that does not significantly affect feeding
- Call your doctor if: Baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight due to feeding difficulties
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
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What Parents Should Know
According to AAP, NIH guidelines, a high arched palate (roof of the mouth) in a newborn can sometimes contribute to feeding difficulties because the baby may have trouble compressing the breast or bottle nipple effectively. Many babies with a high palate feed successfully with positioning adjustments, and the palate shape often changes as the baby grows. In some cases, a high palate is associated with other conditions that your pediatrician may evaluate. At 0-1 month, a high arched palate may be noticed during a newborn exam or when breastfeeding difficulties arise. Babies with a high palate may have difficulty creating the suction needed for effective breastfeeding because the tongue cannot compress the nipple against the roof of the mouth as easily. This can result in a shallow latch, clicking sounds, and poor milk transfer. A lactation consultant can help with positioning and latch techniques. Some babies benefit from nipple shields or special bottle nipples designed for palate variations. It is generally considered normal when a slightly high or arched palate that does not significantly affect feeding. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight due to feeding difficulties.
Normal vs. Concerning
By Age
What to expect by age
0-1 month
A high arched palate may be noticed during a newborn exam or when breastfeeding difficulties arise. Babies with a high palate may have difficulty creating the suction needed for effective breastfeeding because the tongue cannot compress the nipple against the roof of the mouth as easily. This can result in a shallow latch, clicking sounds, and poor milk transfer. A lactation consultant can help with positioning and latch techniques. Some babies benefit from nipple shields or special bottle nipples designed for palate variations.
1-3 months
As your baby grows, the palate may gradually change shape and feeding may improve. Continue working with a lactation consultant if breastfeeding is challenging. Some babies with a high palate do well with a combination of breast and bottle feeding. Weight gain and adequate output (wet and dirty diapers) are the most important indicators that feeding is going well.
3-6 months
The palate continues to develop and may become less arched as the oral cavity grows. Feeding typically becomes easier as your baby's oral motor skills improve. If feeding difficulties persist, your pediatrician may refer to a feeding specialist or evaluate for associated conditions.
6-12 months
As solid foods are introduced, a high palate rarely causes significant difficulties. The palate shape continues to change with growth. In rare cases where a high palate is associated with a genetic condition, your pediatrician may recommend genetic consultation.
What to Tell Your Pediatrician
- Describe when you first noticed high arched palate concerns in newborns and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if persistent feeding difficulties that may be related to palate shape.
- Mention if you notice your baby's palate appears very narrow or unusually arched.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- A slightly high or arched palate that does not significantly affect feeding
- Baby is feeding well, gaining weight, and producing adequate wet diapers
- Mild initial feeding challenges that improve with positioning support
- The palate is smooth and intact with no cleft or opening
- Persistent feeding difficulties that may be related to palate shape
- You notice your baby's palate appears very narrow or unusually arched
- Feeding is not improving despite lactation support and technique adjustments
- Baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight due to feeding difficulties
- You notice a cleft, opening, or unusual appearance in the palate that could indicate a submucous cleft palate
What You Can Do at Home
- Keep track of when you notice high arched palate concerns in newborns — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
- Remember that a slightly high or arched palate that does not significantly affect feeding — this is generally within the range of normal.
- At 0-1 month, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
- Follow any care instructions from your pediatrician. Keep a written log of symptoms to bring to appointments.
- While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight due to feeding difficulties.
Related Conditions
Tongue Tie Affecting Feeding (Ankyloglossia)
Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (frenulum) is too short or tight, potentially restricting tongue movement. It affects about 4-10% of newborns and can sometimes cause difficulty with breastfeeding. Not all tongue ties require treatment, but if feeding is significantly affected, a simple procedure called a frenotomy can help.
Upper Lip Tie in Newborns
An upper lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the upper gum (labial frenulum) is thick, tight, or extends close to the gum line. While all babies have a labial frenulum, a restrictive one may sometimes contribute to breastfeeding difficulties. The significance and treatment of lip ties is more debated among medical professionals than tongue tie.
Baby Born with Cleft Lip or Palate
Cleft lip and cleft palate are among the most common birth differences, occurring in about 1 in 1,600 births. A cleft lip is an opening in the upper lip, while a cleft palate is an opening in the roof of the mouth. They can occur alone or together. With modern surgical repair and a supportive care team, most children with clefts go on to eat, speak, and develop normally. Surgical repair is typically done in the first year of life.
Related Resources
Frequently asked questions
Is high arched palate concerns in newborns normal?
When should I call the doctor about high arched palate concerns in newborns?
When is high arched palate concerns in newborns normal?
What causes high arched palate concerns in newborns?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about high arched palate concerns in newborns?
Is high arched palate concerns in newborns normal at 0-1 month?
Is high arched palate concerns in newborns normal at 1-3 months?
Should I go to the ER for high arched palate concerns in newborns?
Does high arched palate concerns in newborns go away on its own?
References
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss High Arched Palate Concerns in Newborns.
Things to mention
- Describe when you first noticed high arched palate concerns in newborns and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if persistent feeding difficulties that may be related to palate shape.
- Mention if you notice your baby's palate appears very narrow or unusually arched.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
Observations to share
- Persistent feeding difficulties that may be related to palate shape
- You notice your baby's palate appears very narrow or unusually arched
- Feeding is not improving despite lactation support and technique adjustments
Urgent signs to report immediately
- Baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight due to feeding difficulties
- You notice a cleft, opening, or unusual appearance in the palate that could indicate a submucous cleft palate
My notes
From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members
Related Resources
Bottom line
Most cases of high arched palate concerns in newborns are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight due to feeding difficulties.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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Related Medical Concerns
Tongue Tie Affecting Feeding (Ankyloglossia)
Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (frenulum) is too short or tight, potentially restricting tongue movement. It affects about 4-10% of newborns and can sometimes cause difficulty with breastfeeding. Not all tongue ties require treatment, but if feeding is significantly affected, a simple procedure called a frenotomy can help.
Upper Lip Tie in Newborns
An upper lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the upper gum (labial frenulum) is thick, tight, or extends close to the gum line. While all babies have a labial frenulum, a restrictive one may sometimes contribute to breastfeeding difficulties. The significance and treatment of lip ties is more debated among medical professionals than tongue tie.
Baby Born with Cleft Lip or Palate
Cleft lip and cleft palate are among the most common birth differences, occurring in about 1 in 1,600 births. A cleft lip is an opening in the upper lip, while a cleft palate is an opening in the roof of the mouth. They can occur alone or together. With modern surgical repair and a supportive care team, most children with clefts go on to eat, speak, and develop normally. Surgical repair is typically done in the first year of life.
My Baby's Head Shape Looks Abnormal
Many babies develop temporary head shape irregularities that are completely normal. A cone-shaped head from vaginal delivery reshapes within days. Mild positional flattening (plagiocephaly) from sleeping on the back is very common and usually improves with repositioning and tummy time. However, head shape changes involving ridges, a persistently bulging fontanelle, or rapid head growth changes should be evaluated to rule out craniosynostosis.
Achondroplasia (Dwarfism) in Babies
Achondroplasia is the most common form of short-limbed dwarfism, affecting about 1 in 15,000 to 40,000 births. It is caused by a mutation in the FGFR3 gene and is usually apparent at birth with characteristic features including short limbs, a larger head, and a prominent forehead. Intelligence is normal. With monitoring for specific complications and supportive care, children with achondroplasia lead full, active, and independent lives.
Adenoid Hypertrophy and Breathing
Adenoids are lymphoid tissue located behind the nose that help fight infection in young children. When adenoids become enlarged (adenoid hypertrophy), they can block the nasal airway, causing chronic mouth breathing, snoring, nasal speech, and sleep-disordered breathing. Enlarged adenoids are most common between ages 2-7 and are a leading cause of obstructive sleep apnea in young children. Treatment ranges from watchful waiting and nasal steroids to surgical removal (adenoidectomy) if breathing or sleep is significantly affected.