Effects of functional loading on the growth of the mandibular condyle and craniofacial adaptation. A histological and morphometrical study.

The purpose of the present study is to determine whether or not functional loading is critical for the normal growth and maintenance of the mandibular condyle. The effect of altered condylar function on craniofacial morphology, a craniofacial adaptation, was also examined. Fifty -one rats, 5 weeks of age, were divided into 3 groups: a condylotomized group without reduction (unfixed), a condylotomi…