At what age does the growth of the articular process end?

At what age does the growth of the articular process end?

• A. 10-12 years
• B. 14-16 years
• C. 18-21 years
• D. 12-14 years

Answer: (C)

Growth of the articular process (the mandibular condyle area) continues through puberty and into late adolescence because its growth comes from the condylar cartilage via endochondral ossification. This activity extends beyond early teenage years, so final size is typically reached around 18–21 years, with some individual variation (often slightly earlier in females). After this period, growth effectively ceases and changes are mainly remodeling rather than net increases in size. That’s why 18–21 years is the best fit for the end of growth of the articular process.

Growth of the articular process (the mandibular condyle area) continues through puberty and into late adolescence because its growth comes from the condylar cartilage via endochondral ossification. This activity extends beyond early teenage years, so final size is typically reached around 18–21 years, with some individual variation (often slightly earlier in females). After this period, growth effectively ceases and changes are mainly remodeling rather than net increases in size. That’s why 18–21 years is the best fit for the end of growth of the articular process.