Classification Possibilities of the Partially Edentulous Dental Arches in the Past and Today

Different classification systems for partial edentulism have been developed to facilitate and standardize prosthetic care. Their basic concepts reflect the up-to-date dental materials and supply policies of the era. The different classification systems had many advantageous properties, but none of them was able to fulfill their requirements. According to the current approach, the first published classification form was based on the usage of removable partial dentures. Shortly afterwards, Edward Kennedy has created his most commonly used classification system, based on the incidence of individual partial edentulism. A number of excellent dentists have developed a primarily practical-oriented scheme adapted to domestic circumstances, among them the work of Lőrinczy and Földvári, Fábián and Fejérdy should be highlighted. Considering the weaknesses of the previous systems, the American College of Prosthodontists has developed an entirely new system. Their goal was to provide a therapeutic guideline to the practitioner in accordance with the up-to-date care principles. Depending on the complexity of their care, the classification is based on the characteristics of the ridge, the edentulous area, status of the abutment teeth, and the occlusion.