RESUMEN
Objective:To investigate the relationship between mandibular second molar calcification stage and cervical vertebrae maturity.Methods:Samples were derived from panoramic radiographs and lateral cephalograms of 500 subjects (223 males and 277 females)aged 9 to 18 years.Demirjian Index(DI)and cervical vertebrae maturation indicators(CVMI)were used for the evaluation of dental and skeletal maturity.Results:A significantly association was found between DI and CVMI(P <0.001).DI stage E was associated with CVMI Ⅱ(pre-peak of pubertal growth spurt).DI stages F and G was associated with CVMI Ⅲ and Ⅳ(peak of pu-bertal growth spurt).DI stage H was associated with CVMI Ⅴ and Ⅵ(end of pubertal growth spurt).Conclusion:DI and CVMI are significantly associated.Mandibular second molar DI stage is a reliable indicator of skeletal maturity.