The document summarizes the Kennedy classification system for partially edentulous dental arches. The Kennedy system divides arches into four basic classes based on the location of edentulous areas. It aims to provide a simple and universally accepted way to classify and communicate about partial edentulism. The classification satisfies requirements to immediately visualize the arch type and differentiate between tooth-supported and tissue-supported removable partial dentures. Eight rules are also presented to guide application of the Kennedy classification.

1. Presented by:
Dr. Shady A. M. Negm
Bachelor's Degree School of Dentistry,
Pharos University.
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2. The Kennedy method of classification is probably
the most widely accepted classification of
partially edentulous arches today. In an attempt
to simplify the problem and encourage more
universal use of a classification and in the
interest of adequate communication, the
Kennedy classification will be used in this
textbook. The student can refer to the Selected
Reading Resources section for information
relative to other classifications.
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4. 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
tissuesupported removable partial denture.
3) It should be universally acceptable.
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5. KENNEDY CLASSIFICATION
• Kennedy divided all partially edentulous
arches into four basic classes. Edentulous
areas other than those determining the
basic classes were designated as
modification spaces.
• The following is the Kennedy
classification:
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6. Class I: Bilateral edentulous areas located posterior to
the natural teeth
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7. Class II: A unilateral edentulous area located posterior to
the remaining natural teeth
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8. Class III: A unilateral edentulous area with natural teeth
remaining both anterior and posterior to it
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9. Class IV: A single, but bilateral (crossing the midline),
edentulous area located anterior to the
remaining natural teeth
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11. • Rule 1: Classification should follow rather
than precede any extractions of teeth that
might alter the original classification.
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12. • Rule 2: If a third molar is missing and not
to be replaced, it is not considered in the
classification.
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13. • Rule 3: If a third molar is present and is to
be used as an abutment, it is considered
in the classification.
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14. • Rule 4: If a second molar is missing and is
not to be replaced, it is not considered in
the classification (e. g., if the opposing
second molar is likewise missing and is
not to be replaced).
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15. • Rule 5: The most posterior edentulous
area (or areas) always determines the
classification.
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16. • Rule 6: Edentulous areas other than
those determining the classification are
referred to as modifications and are
designated by their number.
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17. • Rule 7: The extent of the modification is
not considered, only the number of
additional edentulous areas.
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18. • Rule 8: There can be no modification
areas in Class IV arches. (Other
edentulous areas lying posterior to the
single bilateral areas crossing the midline
would instead determine the classification;
see Rule 5. )
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19. References
McCracken's Removable Partial
Prosthodontics 11th ed. -
Carr,McGivney,Brown {Elsevier Mosby}.
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