The Raison D’etre of the Mandibular Condyle

Authors

Huei-Mei Tsai, Ortho Dental Clinic, Private Practice, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan

Abstract

The mandibular condyle has a multi-directional growth capacity due to the fact that cells deeply located in the fibrous covering is a prechondroblastic zone which undergoing continued proliferation during active growth. The whole histogenetic process allows for the ramus to lengthen in a pressure site. The adaptive nature of the condylar growth is the main source in scientific validation of functional orthopedic concept and therapy. Bio-dynamic factors which can stimulate the growth of the mandibular condyle and glenoid fossa have been speculated with clinical and experimental studies. The reversing effects of treatment on growth direction and changes in size and morphology of the condyle were also noted. Because of increasing number of adults seeking orthodontic care, an understanding of the details of TMJ growth and developmental changes that normally take place till adulthood, or could be seen in abnormal compensatory responses has become critical.

Recommended Citation

Tsai, Huei-Mei (2010) "The Raison D’etre of the Mandibular Condyle," Taiwanese Journal of Orthodontics: Vol. 22: Iss. 1, Article 1.
https://doi.org/10.30036/TJO.201003.0001
Available at: https://www.tjo.org.tw/tjo/vol22/iss1/1

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