Role of the 'Craniofacial Orthodontist' in a 'Craniofacial Team'

The “craniofacial orthodontist” (CO) plays a vital and integral role in the management of craniofacial anomalies such as cleft lip and palate, and craniofacial syndromes. The COs involvement in the management of craniofacial deformity begins right from birth (e.g., cleft lip and palate) up to complete cessation of active biological growth (adult life). The long-term association of patient–doctor relationship not only demands a consistent understanding of the complexities involved in the multidisciplinary management of the anomaly but also provides a unique opportunity for the CO to work in tandem with other specialties in delivering a holistic treatment. Furthermore, the CO, as a member of the craniofacial team, could make use of the remarkable advancements in the diagnosis and management of craniofacial anomalies. This paper provides an overview of the synergistic management of cleft lip and palate and craniofacial anomalies, with a specific focus on the COs contribution in the craniofacial team with case illustrations, author's favored treatment protocols and integration of recent advancements.