The effect of hypodontia on the general growth pattern was studied by comparing the same hypodontia group (n female = 18, n male = 12) with a control group (n female = 12, n male - 14) at the ages 9 and 16. The length of the maxilla was shorter in individuals with hypodontia, otherwise only minor differences were observed. It thus seems that hypodontia has little effect on the general growth pattern, and that orthodontic treatment in hypodontia patients should follow the same guidelines in relation to growth as in any other children.