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Orthodontics · single question

Mandibular growth proceeds in a 'downward and forward' direction. A key contributing factor is:

  1. Resorption of the condyle
  2. Premature closure of all cranial sutures
  3. Tooth eruption and mesial drift of the teeth (plus condylar growth)
  4. Fusion of the symphysis at birth
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Tooth eruption and mesial drift of the teeth (plus condylar growth)

  • A. Incorrect – the condyle GROWS (apposition), not resorbs.
  • B. Incorrect. Premature suture closure (craniosynostosis) is a pathologic condition, not the normal driver of downward-and-forward mandibular growth.
  • C. Correct – vertical alveolar growth/eruption and mesial migration, together with upward-backward condylar growth (which displaces the mandible down-and-forward), drive the pattern.
  • D. Incorrect – the symphysis fuses around year one and is not the driver of the growth direction.

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