The mission of the Genetics of Orofacial Cleft Project is to learn about the causes and outcomes of orofacial clefting (OFCs). Clefts of the lip and/or palate are common birth defects that require a range of surgical and dental interventions. Although care has improved over the last several decades, the burden of these treatments can take a toll on families. We hope that our research will increase our knowledge of the causes of OFCs and will have long-term impacts on improved prevention, treatment, and prognosis for individuals affected by OFCs.