Skeletal Maturity Indicators in Orthodontics

Maturational development embodies the biologic progression through life. In the growing years, indicators of the level of maturational development of the individual provide the best means for evaluating biologic age 111. Maturational development can be assessed with the help of all the indicators previously described. However, it must be kept in mind that every child demonstrates a unique sequential pattern of events. No child is the same as the other. Skeletal indicators of maturation have been proved to be the most reliable. A combination of skeletal and dental indicators tend to give a very accurate picture of each child¿s developmental status. Finally it must be kept in mind that in orthodontic practice it may be more relevant to evaluate the development of the patient in relation to his own growth potential in order to assess whether peak velocity growth is imminent, present or completed. The choice of indicators to be used finally depends upon an orthodontist¿s preference.