Aberrant mandibular growth: theoretical implications

There is a multiplicity and variety of studies investigating mandibular growth. The exact role of the mandibular condyle in influencing mandibular growth is still a point of conflict. This study was conducted with six subjects who had different condylar defects. The cranium and the skeletal profile, as well as the position of the maxilla and the mandible, were investigated. In all cases, the mandible showed a tendency toward posterior rotation. The total mandibular length was reduced with deficient corpus length and ramus height. The influence of the integrity of the condylar head and its normal articulation in the temporal fossa on mandibular growth were emphasized