SummaryIn this study the effect of free‐end removable partial dentures (RPD) on oral function was investigated by comparing subjects with shortened dental arches (SDA, n=55) and a group of subjects with SDA and RPD (n=25). In addition, a group of subjects were selected who had worn an RPD in the past (n=19). All subjects had a remaining natural dentition consisting of an intact front region and three to five occlusal units (OU) in the posterior area.On the whole, subjects with RPD had less natural OU compared with subjects without RPD. However, this is also true for those who had worn an RPD in the past. The oral functions of subjects with SDA did not differ significantly when compared with subjects with SDA and RPD.Significantly more subjects who had an RPD in the past reported a limited mobility of the mandible, an impaired chewing capacity and chewing with the front teeth. They also reported more aesthetic complaints due to missing posterior teeth.It is concluded that within the populations investigated in this study oral function is not evidently improved by the insertion of a free‐end