Which combination represents a tooth-supported removable partial denture?

A tooth-supported removable partial denture is characterized by its reliance on remaining natural teeth for support and retention. To understand why the correct answer is associated with this particular classification, we need to delve into the specifics of Kennedy classification.

Kennedy Class III is defined as a unilateral edentulous area with natural teeth remaining on both sides, which allows for support from these adjacent teeth while the partial denture spans the edentulous space. This class typically allows for a stable and well-distributed support, making it an excellent candidate for tooth-supported designs.

Kennedy Class IV, on the other hand, refers to a bilateral transverse edentulous space located anterior to the remaining teeth. Similar to Class III, this class can also be effectively supported by the surrounding natural dentition. The existing teeth can provide adequate support and retention, forming a solid base for a removable partial denture.

Combining these two classes, Class III and Class IV, leads to a situation where both designs can be effectively tooth-supported. The resulting removable partial denture can utilize the remaining teeth for anchorage, ensuring stability and functional effectiveness.

In contrast, other combinations listed in the choices either include configurations that do not provide sufficient support from remaining teeth (like Class I, which describes bilateral