Tooth eruption is a physiologic process that is closely related to normal craniofacial development. The present study aims to evaluate the relation between the eruption and development of the second molars to craniofacial morphology. Objectives: To explore the correlations between second molar eruption and cephalometric parameters of craniofacial morphology. Methods: A total of 1048 records were screened to select a sample of 171 subjects representing a cross-sectional sample from the age group of 9 through 14 years. Sagittal cephalometric and panoramic radiographs were analyzed for second molar developmental stage, second molar position from the plane of occlusion and eleven cephalometric variables including % ANS-Me to N-Me, SN-GoGn, FMA, Mandibular Occipital Angle, ANS-Xi-Gn, N-Pt-ANS, Saddle Angle, Articular Angle, Gonial Angle, and length of the mandible. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate correlations and regression using SPSS statistical software. Results: A significant correlation (p<0.01) was found between the developmental position of the maxillary second molar with mandibular occipital angle, saddle angle and the length of the mandible. Correlations (p<0.01) were also found in the developmental position of the mandibular molar with mandibular length. Other cephalometric variables as the mandibular occipital angle were found to be correlated at the (p<0.05) level. A linear regression identified age as the strongest factor in prediciting the molar development. The lower facial height as measured with ANS-Xi-Gn increased the prediction marginally. Conclusion: A significant correlation was found in the developmental position of the second molar with craniofacial morphology. Age was also found to be the strongest predictor in tooth development. This evidence suggests the close association of tooth development with craniofacial morphology. Eruption of the second molars can directly affect the overall treatment planning and timing of orthodontic treatment.

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