Growth and Development in the Symphysis of the Human Mandible Within the First Year of Life

All work dealing witth bone growth in general is applicable to the mandible. Microscopic studies have indicated that the cell is the important unit in bone growth. Studies on trajectory pattern have pointed to a close interdependence between the function and form of a bone. Other studies have indicated strong hereditary influences in the definition of skeletal pattern. Together with a great deal of other studies on bone growth, the embryologists, anatomists, and the anthropologists have added information on the human mandible until today it might seem presumptuous for anyone to seek to add anything new upon this question of the growth and development of the lower jaw. In 1904, Bardeleben described the symphyseal area, or future chin in man, as a special and distinct skeletal element. Although a number of investigators have closely studied the postnatal growth and development of the mandible and the contribution made by this bone to the maturing face, very little attention has been given to the symphyseal joint area, and the functional role of this midline suture. It seems surprising that so much neglect has been given to the development and histological structure of this suture, in view of the controversy which has long existed over the role of sutures in the growth of the skull. In this paper a detailed study of the postnatal growth, development, morphogenesis, and function of the human mandible is presented. It is hoped that this will lead to better understanding of the maturation of the mandible