Morphological development of the mandible in prenatal and post-natal periods: clinical implications

Abstract

Background. Mandible development begins in the 6th week of intrauterine life and continues through prenatal and post-natal periods. Originating from the first pharyngeal arch, the mandible forms via primary intramembranous ossification around Meckel’s cartilage, with secondary cartilage contributing to various structures. Objective of the study. To provide a comprehensive review of the morphological development of the mandible during prenatal and post-natal periods, emphasizing the clinical implications for craniofacial abnormalities. Material and methods. The literature review was conducted, focusing on the embryological development of the mandible, including the initial formation from neural crest cells, the role of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve, and the subsequent ossification processes. The study examines primary and secondary cartilage contributions, the growth patterns of trabecular bones, and the formation of key mandibular structures. Results. Mandibular development begins with neural crest cell migration to the mandibular arch, forming the primary intramembranous ossification around Meckel’s cartilage. Secondary cartilage later develops into the coronoid process, mental tuberance, and condylar head. Initial trabecular bone growth forms the symphysis, coronoid process, and mandibular body. By the 8th week, rapid trabecular bone growth supports muscle formation and lengthening. The mandible separates from Meckel’s cartilage, forming the condyle blastema, which fuses by endochondrial ossification at the midline, completing the mandibular symphysis. Conclusions. Understanding the intricate development of the mandible has significant clinical implications, particularly for diagnosing and treating craniofacial abnormalities.