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Choosing a Craniofacial Team for Your Child...page 3
Larry A. Sargent, M.D.

Pedodontist/Orthodontist These team members record dentition of patients, evaluate dental health and diagnose dentofacial deformities. The orthodontist works closely with the plastic surgeon on many cases, especially those involving surgical movement of the jaw.

Geneticist The geneticist has two important roles on the craniofacial team. The first is helping with the patient's specific diagnosis, especially in rare syndromes. The second is to counsel parents and family members as to any genetic implications of the defect.

Ophthalmologist The ophthalmologist screens patients with facial deformities for possible vision abnormalities. The ophthalmologist works closely with the plastic surgeon when surgical intervention requires the orbital area.

Other specialties include:Psychology, Social Work, Nursing, Prosthodontics

The patient's parents should also be considered important members of the craniofacial team. They are charged with the responsibility of making decisions for their child's future and for following through with the recommended treatment plan. It is important that the parents feel comfortable with the craniofacial team in asking questions regarding the recommendations and interventions for their child.

Getting Support
The support of other parents is important to families whose loved one has a facial deformity. The craniofacial center should be able to link you with other families who have a child with a similar defect. The center should have regular support group meetings and offer educational materials about craniofacial anomalies to parents.

(At the Tennessee Craniofacial Center all patients are evaluated by members of the craniofacial team, and a treatment plan is developed.)

"The complexity of many craniofacial defects requires the expertise of an established craniofacial team to treat the patient."

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The Tennessee Craniofacial Center, part of the Erlanger Health System, is located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Center, led Larry A. Sargent, M.D., specializes in the evaluation and treatment of patients of all ages with craniofacial deformities. Location: 975 East Third Street. Chattanooga, Tennessee 37403
Phone: 423-778-9192 or 800-418-3223 Fax: 423-778-8172
Internet: www.craniofacialcenter.com Copyright ©1997, 2000, Erlanger Health Systems