Skeletal Maturity Indicators: A Guide to Assess Growth Status for Dentofacial Orthopedics

Every skeletal and muscular dimension seems to be involved in the pubertal growth spurt. The pubertal growth spurt is considered to be an advantageous period for certain types of orthodontic treatment and should be taken into account in connection with orthodontic treatment planning. Optimal timing for treatment is different in the various malocclusions. Optimal effectiveness in the use of orthodontic or orthopedic appliances has been associated with skeletal maturation. Functional appliances have been shown to be more effective when used in the peak of mandibular growth rather than earlier. Evidence-based orthodontic practice requires research into treatment outcome of various modalities. For this reason, an indication of the maturation level of an individual is necessary to predict future growth. This book provides an insight into the various methods used for skeletal maturity indication and the application of each one of them in dentofacial orthopedics.