Abstract

A SIMPLIFIED CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FOR PARTIALLY EDENTULOUS SPACES

Author(s):Bhandari Aruna J, Bhandari Akshay J

Background: There is no single universally employed classification system that will specify the exact edentulous situation. Several classification systems exist to group the situation and avoid confusion. Classifications based on edentulous areas, finished restored prostheses, type of direct retainers or fulcrum lines are there. Some are based depending on the placement of the implants. Widely accepted Kennedy Applegate classification does not give any idea about length, span or number of teeth missing. Rule 6 governing the application of Kennedy method states that additional edentulous areas are referred as modification number 1,2 etc. Rule 7 states that extent of the modification is not considered; only the number of edentulous areas is considered. Hence there is a need to modify the Kennedy –Applegate System. Aims: This new classification system is an attempt to modify Kennedy –Applegate System so as to give the exact idea about missing teeth, space, span, side and areas of partially edentulous arches. Methods and Material: This system will provide the information regarding Maxillary or Mandibular partially edentulous arches, Left or Right side, length of the edentulous space, number of teeth missing and whether there will be tooth borne or tooth – tissue borne prosthesis. Conclusions: This classification is easy for application, communication and will also help to design the removable cast partial denture in a better logical and systematic way. Also, this system will give the idea of the edentulous status and the number of missing teeth in fixed, hybrid or implant prosthesis.

• PDF