Clinical Experience Regarding the Influence of the Condyle on the Growth of the Mandible

Abstract

The mandible is normally symmetrical in size and shape, but in clinical practice cases are often seen which differ from the norm. These deviations from normal stimulate us to enquire about their aetiology and their growth mode, both in respect of the symmetrical cases as well as the asymmetrical ones. In particular the asymmetric forms are the ones which are of special interest both in their aetiology and in form development. They can be forms with a growth deficit as well as those with an excess of growth. As far as the plus or minus of growth of a complete mandibular half is concerned, the cause must lie in the growth regulation mechanism within that mandibular half. This means there must be a local factor independent of whether both or one side only is involved. This is true for those growth anomalies with a known cause as well as those of uncertain aetiology. As long as one agrees that the condyle with its cartilaginous zone can have an influence on regulation of growth of the mandible,and of that there is no doubt (see Fig. 28), it seems possible that condylar hypoactivity as well as hyperactivity can exist. Therefore, both have to be differentiated from normal activity which is responsible for the normal growth of the mandible within the genetic pattern.