Frequency of Patterns of Partial Edentulism in Maxillary Arch in Patients Reporting to the Department of Prosthodontics, Bacha Khan College of Dentistry
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52206/jsmc.2026.16.2.1394Abstract
Background: Partial edentulism, defined as the loss of one or more teeth within a dental arch, significantly affects oral function, mastication, and aesthetics. The pattern of tooth loss, particularly in the maxillary arch, has important implications for prosthetic rehabilitation. However, region-specific data on the distribution of partial edentulism patterns and their demographic determinants remain limited.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of different patterns of maxillary partial edentulism based on Kennedy’s classification and to evaluate their association with demographic and clinical variables.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 298 patients with maxillary partial edentulism attending the Department of Prosthodontics at Bacha Khan College of Dentistry, Pakistan. Edentulous patterns were classified using Kennedy’s classification system by a calibrated examiner following Applegate’s rules. Demographic variables including age, gender, BMI, education level, socioeconomic status, and duration of edentulism were recorded. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact test where appropriate, and multinomial logistic regression to identify independent predictors. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Kennedy Class III was the most prevalent pattern (47.7%), followed by Class I (24.8%), Class II (21.5%), and Class IV (6.0%). Significant associations were observed between edentulism patterns and age, gender, education, socioeconomic status, and duration of edentulism (p < 0.001). Multinomial regression analysis revealed that low socioeconomic status and older age were strong independent predictors of distal extension patterns (Class I and II). BMI showed no significant association with the pattern of edentulism.
Conclusion: Kennedy Class III predominates in maxillary partial edentulism within this population, while demographic disparities, particularly socioeconomic status and age, significantly influence the pattern of tooth loss. These findings highlight the need for targeted preventive strategies and equitable access to dental care. Further longitudinal and community-based studies are recommended to validate these associations.
Keywords: Kennedy Classification, Maxillary Arch, Partial Edentulism, Socioeconomic Factors, Tooth Loss.
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