Chronological versus skeletal age, an evaluation of craniofacial growth.

Skeletal and chronologic ages of both female and male populations were compared relative to the degree of concurrence between the two age-indices at the various age levels. Maxillary and mandibular cephalometric measurements were similarly compared for both sex groups. Individual's comparisons of facial changes were made relative to their respective chronologic and skeletal ages. The significance of a skeletal vs. chronologic age discrepancy and its relationship to the timing of facial growth was demonstrated. Clinical implications were discussed.