Brian Palmer, thank you for your wonderful posts! Add to the list of causes of oral structural problems: Misalignment of cranial bones that does not resolve within a few weeks after birth. Osteopathic physicians have known about this for years. "Stuck" cranial bones put pressure on one or more of the 6 cranial nerves that control suck-swallow-breathe. I've seen nearly miraculous results on babies with crummy suck patterns from osteopathic treatment provided by a doctor in my city. I've videotaped several of these babies before, during and after treatment, and the results are fantastic. The palate is often "stuck" too, and I bet resolves to a more normal placement following treatment. I haven't systematically followed any changes in palate shape, but will start immediately. Linda Smith, who had her own facial bones "rearranged" by a D.O. a year ago. My breathing is easier, snoring better but not cured, and voice quality improved. Wearing my green "Feel the Love - Breastfeed" T-shirt today. Tomorrow will be "Guardian Angel; Thursday will be "Cherish the Connection."