Craniofacial Growth: Current Theories and Influence on Management

Abstract

Craniofacial development is a highly coordinated process under a tight genetic control and environmental influence. Understanding the core concepts of growth and development of the craniofacial skeleton and the impact of treatment on growth potential is vital to successful patient management. To maximize outcomes and minimize iatrogenic consequences, proper sequencing and timing of interventions are critical. The development of the craniofacial skeleton occurs as a result of a sequence of normal developmental events: brain growth and development, optic pathway development, speech and swallowing development, airway and pharyngeal development, muscle development, and tooth development and eruption.

Keywords: Craniofacial development; Craniofacial growth; Craniomaxillofacial surgery; Dentofacial growth/development; Facial growth/development; Maxillofacial growth/development; Orthodontics.