Orthognathic Surgery: Q&A

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When Do Jaws Stop Growing?

My niece always complains about her jaw clicking. Is this because of the growing plates? (she's 14) One side of her jaw is wider than the other. The narrower side is the one that's clicking. Does this mean that the non clicking side is already developed. The same thing happened to me before and to this day one side of my jaw is slightly wider and stronger than the other. How much wider would a jaw grow from 14 yrs to 25 yrs old. Could mine be still developing as well? I like my jaw so ihope not

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age 17 or under jaw clicking growth
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1 Doctor Answer | Asked by MissJessica
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TMJ Problems and Growing Jaws, Orthognathic Jaw Surgery, TMJ Surgery

The jaws usually stop growing in females around the ages of 16-17. For males usually 18-21. This is only a guide and not always true. Every individual is different. You can determine when growth stops with serial cephalometric films or even hand / wrist films to see if the growth plates are gone. The size discrepency may mean this individual has a dentofacial deformity known as hemifacial microsomia. It cant be determined until she is examined by a Board... more

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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.

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