Possible explanation of the role of the PD ligaments Importance to the growth. Novel suggested mechanism of jaws growth. Supplemental paper

The mechanical properties of the periodontal ligaments are highly difficult to measure and at the same time extremely to be characterized. The effect of the teeth on the growth of the jaws had been investigated by the early researchers. We think that the PD ligament component in the alveolar process is an analogue to the epiphyseal plate. In this paper we had presented a model to highlight the importance of the PD ligaments on the mechanical response of the jaws.