Abstract: In order to understand the variation of Holocene Chinese temporomandibular joint morphology, this study has analyzed a number of sample groups including: Neolithic (n =54), Bronze-Iron Age ( n = 189 ) and modern ( n = 92 ) adult male skulls from northern China. The results of this work indicate that the linear characteristics of these Chinese temporomandibular joint varied throughout the past 7000 years. Condylar processes decreased in size and became thinner and flatter and the mandibular fossa depth decreased especially from the Neolithic to Bronze-Iron Age. Coronoid processes also thinned, especially from the Bronze-Iron Age to the present day. These anatomical variations may be associated with changes in environment or diet.

Key words: Holocene; Mandibular fossa; Condylar process; Size