On the postnatal growth of the canalis mandibulae in the miniature pig.

The shape and the growth of the canalis mandibulae in female miniature pigs, MINI-LEWE, were analysed in 11 postnatal age steps. The lower jaw halves were cut frontally in a defined position and the heights and widths of the canalis mandibulae were measured. Changes in the shape of the canalis mandibulae in the frontal saw cuts were observed with regard to the dentition. After the eruption of the deciduous teeth there was no further change in shape. Growth curves of the mandibular canal's measures reached a peak during the eruption of the deciduous teeth and the first molar, decreasing significantly afterwards. A close correlation was observed between the measures of canal height and canal width. On the other hand there was only a slight correlation with the external measures of the mandible, which suggests that there are different growth processes.