Implant-assisted removable partial denture: An approach to switch Kennedy Class I to Kennedy Class III

The Kennedy Class I and II distal extension situation poses a challenge to the prosthodontist as it inherently possesses a lack of stability, which may be attributed to the difference in compressibility of the mucosa and the periodontal ligament surrounding the distal-most abutment tooth. This results in a rotational tendency of the prosthesis around the line connecting its terminal abutments. Placement of osseointegrated dental implants in the posterior edentulous regions, distal to the terminal abutment provides improved vertical support to the distal extension removable partial denture, effectively converting its intraoral performance from a Kennedy Class I to a Class III situation, thereby resulting in improved stability of the prosthesis and consequently, enhanced patient satisfaction. This case report describes such an approach to the restoration of a Kennedy Class I partially edentulous situation.