DENT 5445 Growth and Development

This block provides a comprehensive survey of craniofacial growth and development with direct application to dentistry. Students examine skeletal and dental growth theories, timing and sequence of eruption, and determinants of facial form. Emphasis is placed on methods of age assessment (skeletal, dental, and cephalometric), occlusion development from primary through mixed to permanent dentitions, and recognition of deviations from normal. Clinical correlations include screening for malocclusion, habit-related changes (thumb sucking, mouth breathing), interceptive guidance strategies, and implications for pediatric and orthodontic treatment planning. Case-based discussions and radiographic interpretation reinforce decision-making.

Credits

2