The role of the condyle in the growth of the mandible and in facial balance

Abstract The condyle is not responsible for the growth of the body of the mandible, as the latter does not extend in length caudally at the expense of the ascending rami (through the classical relocation phenomenon), but does so deep to these, at the level of the lower insertions of the sphenomandibular ligaments (i.e., from the inlet inner border of the inferior dental canals). Philogenetically and ontogenetically, its appearance reflects the adaptation of the mandible of mammals to the morphologic and functional changes that took place in their cephalic skeleton (more erect posture, more vigorous mastication). Its chief role in man is to stabilize the mandibular body and to allow it to be properly mobilized, although contributing also to its forward and downward movements (namely in its posterior aspect). As such, it plays an active role in mandibular growth, and this role varies according to the primary "potential" of the condylar cartilage. Such primary-type potential for condylar growth may be adequately assessed by studying the shape of the mandible, as well as through an analysis of craniofacial architecture. Most of the conventional diagrams depicting mandibular growth are defective. Another figurative system has to be innovated, that will differentiate each skeletal unit--body, condyle, coronoid process, angle, alveolodental arch--, the sum of which confers the shape, the size, and the multiple variations to the mandible as a whole.