A patient is bilaterally edentulous in the posterior maxilla and mandible, with natural teeth remaining only anteriorly. What is the Kennedy classification of this partially edentulous arch?

Kennedy Class I is defined as bilateral posterior edentulous areas (bilateral free-end saddles). The patient has natural teeth remaining anteriorly but no posterior teeth on either side — this is the classic Kennedy Class I presentation. Kennedy Class II is a unilateral posterior edentulous area. Kennedy Class III is a unilateral edentulous area with teeth present both anterior and posterior to the space (bounded saddle). Kennedy Class IV is a single bilateral edentulous area located anterior to the remaining teeth (crosses the midline). Kennedy Class I arches require distal extension RPDs, which have unique biomechanical considerations.