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Classification of RPD's and Partially

Edentulous Arches
The classification of RPD's and partially edentulous arches simplifies communication
and discussion.

Requirements of an Acceptable Method of Classification

The classification of a partially edentulous arch should satisfy the following
requirements:
1. It should permit immediate visualization of the type of partially edentulous arch that
is being considered.
2. It should permit immediate differentiation between the tooth-supported and the
tooth- and tissue-supported removable partial denture.
3. Serve as a guide to the type of design to be used

4. It should be universally acceptable.

*Many systems of classification have been suggested. In this lecture three general
and widely accepted systems of classifying RPDs and partially edentulous arches will
be described.

I. Classification based on arch configuration

Kennedy Classification System
The most widely used method for classification of partially edentulous dental arches
was proposed by Dr Edward Kennedy of New York in 1925.
The Kennedy Classification System is composed of four major categories, denoted
Class I through Class IV. The numeric sequence of the classification system was based
partly on the frequency of occurrence, with Class I arches being most common and
Class IV arches least common.

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Kennedy Class I arch: Characterized by bilateral edentulous areas located posterior

to the remaining natural teeth.

Figure (2.1): Class I Kennedy classification

Kennedy Class II arch: Displays a unilateral edentulous area located posterior to the
remaining natural teeth

Figure (2.2): Class II Kennedy classification

Kennedy Class III arch: Presents a unilateral edentulous area with natural teeth both
anterior and posterior to it

Figure (2.3): Class III Kennedy classification

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Kennedy Class IV arch: Displays a single, bilateral edentulous area located anterior
to the remaining natural teeth. It is important to note that the edentulous space must
cross the dental midline

Figure (2.4): Class IV Kennedy classification

Modification spaces
Each Kennedy classification, except Class I, refers to a single edentulous area. In
reality, additional areas of edentulism may occur within a dental arch. Kennedy
referred to each additional edentulous area (not each additional missing tooth) as a
modification space. Dr Kennedy included the number of modification areas in the
classification (eg, Class I, Modification 1; Class II, Modification 3).

Figure (2.5): Class II and class II modification 1

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Applegate’s rules for classification

While the Kennedy system provided a method for classification of partially edentulous
arches, there was some uncertainty regarding its application. In 1954, Dr O. C.
Applegate provided the following rules to govern application of the Kennedy system:
1. Classification should follow rather than precede extractions that might alter the
original classification.

2. If the third molar is missing and not to be replaced, it is not considered in the
classification.

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3. If a third molar is present and is to be used as an abutment, it is considered in the

classification.

4. If a second molar is missing and is not to be replaced (that is, the opposing second
molar is also missing and is not to be replaced), it is not considered in the
classification.

5. The most posterior edentulous area(s) always determines the classification.

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6. Edentulous areas other than those determining the classification are referred to as
modification spaces and are designated by their number.

7. The extent of the modification is not considered, only the number of additional
edentulous areas.

8. There can be no modification areas in Class IV arches. Any edentulous area lying
posterior to the single bilateral area determines the classification.

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*Nine partially edentulous arch configurations. Identify each.

Answers
A. CL IV
B. CL II Mod 2
C. CL I Mod 1
D. CL III Mod 3
E. CL III Mod 1
F. CL III Mod 1
G. CL IV
H. CL II
I. CL III Mod 5

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II. Classification based on support

There are three types of RPDs or partially edentulous arches based on the tissue(s)
which provide support. Support is the resistance to movement of the denture toward
the edentulous ridge. RPDs may be tooth supported, tissue supported, and tooth tissue
supported.
A. The Tooth Supported RPD
Tooth supported RPDs receive all their support from the abutment teeth.

Figure (2.6): Tooth supported RPD

B. Tissue Supported RPDs
Tissue supported RPDs are primarily supported by the tissues (mucosa overlying
bone) of the denture foundation area.
The tissue supported RPD is essentially a complete denture with some remaining
natural teeth. Tissue supported RPDs have the potential to cause soft tissue damage
and periodontal attachment loss and accordingly should be used for only a short period
of time (one year or less) while a FPD, definitive RPD or implant prosthesis is
constructed.

Figure (2.7): Tissue supported RPD

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C. The Tooth-Tissue Supported RPD

The tooth-tissue supported RPD is supported at one end by natural teeth, which
essentially do not move, and at the other end by the denture bearing tissues (mucosa
overlying bone) which moves because of the resiliency of the mucosa. The
design of the tooth-tissue supported RPD is one of the most controversial topics in
prosthodontics.

Figure (2.8): Tooth-Tissue supported RPD

III. Classification based on type of material
A. The Definitive RPD
The RPD is constructed from a cast metal alloy after extensive diagnosis,
treatment planning, and thorough preparation of the teeth and tissues for the
prosthesis. The length of service of definitive RPDs is intended to be many years.eg:
cobalt chromium alloy removable partial denture.
B. The Interim RPD
The RPD is constructed from plastic which is usually as part of the preparation of the
mouth for definitive RPD, FPD or implant treatment. The length of service of interim
RPDs is generally planned to be a year or less, They are frequently referred to as
temporary RPDs.eg: acrylic removable partial denture.