1. Indications for RPD
   1. Distal extention cases
   2. After recent extractions as an interim prosthesis
   3. Long span edentulous arches
   4. Need for cross arch stabilization - edentulous spaces on both sides of arch
   5. Excessive loss of alveolar bone
2. Kennedy's classification
   1. Most widely used Classification
   2. Class I
      1. Bilateral edentulous area located posterior to remaining natural teeth
         1. Most commonly seen
   3. Class II
      1. Unilateral edentulous area located posterior to remaining natural teeth
   4. Class III
      1. Unilateral edentulous are with natural teeth anterior & posterior to it
         1. Best resists the forces applied to it, because it is tooth supported at both the ends
   5. Class IV
      1. Single bilateral edentulous area located anterior to remaining natural teeth
         1. Least common
   6. 2 more classes are added to this classification
   7. Class V
      1. An edentulous area bound by teeth anteriorly & posteriorly, but where anterior tooth is not suitable to be used as an abutment
   8. Class VI
      1. An edentulous situation where the bounded teeth are capable of total support of the prosthesis
3. Applegate's rules
   1. Rule 1
      1. Classification should follow rather than precede extractions that might alter the original classification
   2. Rule 2
      1. If 3rd molar is missing & not to be replaced it is not considered in the classification
   3. Rule 3
      1. If 3rd molar is present & is to be used as an abutment, it is considered in the classification
   4. Rule 4
      1. If 2nd molar is missing not to be replaced that is the opposing 2nd molar is also missing & is not considered in the classification
   5. Rule 5
      1. The posterior most edentulous area or areas determines the classification
   6. Rule 6
      1. Edentulous areas other than those determining classification are referred as modification spaces & are designated by their number
   7. Rule 7
      1. The extent of modification is not considered, only the number of edentulous areas
   8. Rule 8
      1. There can be no medical areas in Class IV arches, because any edentulous area lying posterior to the single bilateral area determines the classification
4. Components of RPD
   1. Major connector
   2. Minor connector
   3. Rest & rest seats
   4. Direct retainer
   5. Indirect retainer
   6. Denture base
5. OTHER KEY POINTS
   1. Support for RPD/Distal extention cast partial denture
      1. Kennedy's class III & IV derive support from adjacent teeth
      2. Class I & II RPD receive support from both Residual ridges & terminal abutments
      3. Distal extention cast partial denture :- both tissue & tooth borne
   2. Extent of framework
      1. Minor connector for Maxillary distal extention should cover maxillary tuberosity
      2. While in Mandibular arch it should extend till anterior 2/3rd the length of retromolar pad