This seminar course provides a comprehensive review of growth and development of the craniofacial complex. The course focuses on head and neck anatomy and dental development from in utero to adolescence. Several theories related to "how the head grows" are discussed including an examination of the functional matrix theory as it applies to craniofacial growth. The principles of bone development in the craniofacial region are reviewed in great detail. The student will gain an understanding of the biology of soft and hard tissues in the cranium. The objective of the second part of the course is to give the student an understanding and working knowledge of the current concept of craniofacial growth at the molecular and genetic levels. Key aspects of craniofacial embryology, general concepts of patterning in development, patterning in craniofacial development, and the molecular basis of a specific craniofacial disorder are discussed. This involves recent research advances in molecular biologic factors in facial growth as well as the clinical relevance of craniofacial growth.