Basic mechanisms in craniofacial growth.

Bone growth is controlled by growth areas, not active growth centers as stated earlier. Conversion of cartilage, sutural deposition, and periosteal remodeling are the basic phenomena involved in growth mechanisms. The principles of bone growth will result in changes in the size and shape of the mandible and the nasomaxillary complex in the three dimensions. The growth rate varies at different times during the development of the child. The processes of facial growth and changes in the dental arches continue to a much later age than had previously been realized. Although our knowledge of craniofacial growth has increased during recent times, it is still incomplete with regard to the explanation for the regulation of craniofacial growth.