Craniofacial Center

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is cleft lip and palate?

  A cleft of the lip and palate occurs when a baby’s lip and/or roof of the mouth do not close or “join together” during the early months of pregnancy. It is one of the most common facial differences with about 1 in 700 babies being affected. The cleft may occur on one side — called a unilateral cleft — or on both the right and left sides — called a bilateral cleft.

• Why did this happen to my child?

  Clefting may occur spontaneously — meaning there is no medical cause — or it may be passed down from a parent or another family member. Certain syndromes may also cause clefting.

• Why do I need a craniofacial team?
  Your child has unique needs a craniofacial team has unique healthcare providers in one group. These providers will examine your child and as a team come up with a plan just for your baby. The recommendations will provide a comprehensive plan for the upcoming year. When you come to the team with your child you only have to make one trip instead of having to go to multiple doctor’s offices.

  The communication among your child’s doctors will improve since all of your child’s providers are in the same clinic at the same time. You will not have to send emails and letters to coordinate a plan with multiple health care professionals.

  Our team strives to create meaningful relationships with your family, and together we will work to develop the whole child.
• How often do I visit with my team?

  Most children come to team once every 12-18 months for an annual visit. Often times, we will see you for a “mini” visit, and this is usually scheduled four to six months after surgery.

• What should I do to prepare my child for a team visit?

  Since your child may see up to eight different specialists you should expect to be at the Center for several hours.

  Appointments begin at 8 a.m. and usually last until about noon. We have snacks and drinks for your child (and coffee for moms and dads!).

• Will my pediatrician get recommendations from the team?

  We strive for excellent communication among our patients’ families and all members of your child’s healthcare team.

  At the time of your visit we will ask you to give us the names and contact information of all the providers you wish to have your child’s records to be sent.

  Usually this includes your child’s pediatrician, dentist, orthodontist, speech pathologist and the special education team at your child’s school.

• Where do I park?

  You will park in Dogwood Parking Deck. Take the elevator to the third floor, and walk to the connected Cardinal Parking Deck. From the third floor, take the sky bridge to Tarrson Hall to enter Carolina Dentistry.

• Where can I learn more about my child's condition?
  American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association: This is a national organization of healthcare professionals from different specialties who specialize in taking care of patients with birth differences of the head and face.

  Cleft Palate Foundation: A non profit organization that provides informational material and advocates for patients with cleft lip and palate

  Cleft Advocate: An organization whose mission is to educate and inspire families whose lives are touched by cleft lip and/or palate or other craniofacial anomalies

  AdoptCleft: An organization that was created to support families that have adopted cleft lip and /or palate internaltionally.