RPD Manual 11 - Removable Prosthodontics - Dalhousie University

Table of Contents - 4
F. Classification
The Need for Classification
There may be over 65,000 possible combinations of teeth and edentulous spaces. A
classification system facilitates communication between dentists. Since there are several
methods of classifying partial dentures, the use of non-standard classifications could lead to
confusion. Therefore, the Kennedy system has been adopted by most dentists.
Kennedy Classification
In 1923, Kennedy devised a system that became popular due to its simplicity and ease of
application. A tremendous number of possible combinations can be reduced to four simple
groups.
Class I - bilateral edentulous areas Class II - unilateral edentulous area
located posterior to all remaining teeth. located posterior to all remaining teeth.
Class III - unilateral edentulous area Class IV - a single, but bilateral
bounded by anterior and (crossing the midline) edentulous
posterior natural teeth. area located anterior to remaining teeth.