Removable Partial Denture - Consequences of Tooth Loss and Classification

Vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomic and physiologic consequences of tooth loss, tooth support types, Kennedy's Classification of partially edentulous arches, and Applegate's Rules.

Anatomic Consequences of Tooth Loss

Changes including loss of ridge volume in height and width, greater mandibular bone loss than maxillary, posterior bone loss being more pronounced, creation of a broader mandibular and constricted maxillary arch, and replacement of attached gingiva with less keratinized oral mucosa.

Physiologic Consequences of Tooth Loss

Functional and structural changes including less muscular guidance, altered chewing pattern, altered lip support (especially with loss of the canine), and reduced facial height.

Tooth-supported Edentulous Space

An edentulous area with natural teeth remaining both anterior and posterior to the space, providing support.

Tooth-and Tissue-supported Edentulous Space

An edentulous area with remaining natural teeth either anterior or posterior to the space, relying on both tooth and soft tissue for support.

Purpose of Classification

To facilitate treatment decisions on the basis of treatment complexity for a partially edentulous arch.

Edward Kennedy

The person who proposed Kennedy's classification of partially edentulous arches in 1925.

Kennedy Class I

Bilateral edentulous areas located posterior to the remaining natural teeth (tooth-and-tissue supported).

Kennedy Class II

Unilateral edentulous area located posterior to the remaining natural teeth (tooth-and-tissue supported).

Kennedy Class III

Unilateral edentulous area with natural teeth remaining both anterior and posterior to it (tooth supported).

Kennedy Class IV

Single, but bilateral (crossing the midline), edentulous area located anterior to the remaining natural teeth.

Applegate's Rule No. 1

Classification should follow rather than precede any extractions of teeth that might alter the original classification.

Applegate's Rule No. 2

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

Applegate's Rule No. 3

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

Applegate's Rule No. 4

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

Applegate's Rule No. 5

The most posterior edentulous area/areas always determines the classification.

Applegate's Rule No. 6

Edentulous areas other than those that determine the classification are referred to as modifications and are designated by their number.

Applegate's Rule No. 7

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

Applegate's Rule No. 8

No modification areas can be included in the Class IV arch.

Modifications

Additional edentulous spaces other than the most posterior area that determines the primary classification, designated by their number regardless of their extent.