What is considered the MOST stable area to evaluate craniofacial growth?

The anterior cranial base is regarded as the most stable area to evaluate craniofacial growth due to its anatomical characteristics. This region, which includes structures such as the frontal bone and part of the ethmoid bone, serves as a critical foundation for the cranium and the face. Unlike other areas that may experience significant changes due to factors like tooth eruption or soft tissue growth, the anterior cranial base is less influenced by these developments, providing a reliable reference point for assessing craniofacial changes over time.

By using the anterior cranial base as a stable landmark, practitioners can better track growth patterns and relationships between different craniofacial components. This stability is essential for planning orthodontic treatment and understanding facial asymmetries or developmental discrepancies. The enduring nature of this area helps in making accurate comparisons across different stages of growth or among different individuals, solidifying its role in craniometric assessments.

In contrast, areas such as the cranial vault may exhibit variability due to the influence of surrounding tissues and their growth patterns. Similarly, structures like the nasal floor and naso-maxillary complex are subject to a range of functional adaptations, such as those occurring with mastication or respiration, which may complicate their use as consistent reference points for growth