Functional and Morphometric Characteristics of the Maxillary System

This article examines the functional and morphometric characteristics of the maxillary system with a focus on the high prevalence and multifactorial nature of distal occlusion in children. The study emphasizes the role of genetic predisposition, early childhood illnesses, oral habits, and maxillofacial functional disorders as key risk factors. Particular attention is given to the importance of initiating orthodontic treatment during the mixed dentition period to prevent complications such as palatal trauma, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and psychological impacts during speech development. The paper highlights the significance of skeletal age assessment—especially through cervical vertebrae maturation analysis on lateral teleradiographs—as a reliable predictor of mandibular growth peak. Understanding individual variations in mandibular and facial growth patterns is presented as essential for optimizing treatment timing and outcomes. The authors conclude that facial aesthetics assessment should be integrated into orthodontic diagnostics, as occlusal anomalies strongly influence facial harmony and patient self-esteem.