Secondary prevention prevents further deterioration that would result in extensive lesions, pulpal involvement, or periodontitis.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not enough information
• D. It depends on patient adherence

Answer: (A)

Secondary prevention aims to prevent further deterioration once disease has begun, by intervening early to stop its progression. In dentistry, this means taking steps after initial decay or early gum disease is detected to prevent it from advancing to more serious damage. For caries, approaches like remineralization with fluoride, protective sealants, or minimal restorations help arrest the lesion before it becomes large or reaches the pulp. For periodontal disease, thorough cleaning, scaling and root planing, and maintenance therapy are used to stop progression that could lead to deeper pockets and bone loss. Because the goal is to halt progression and avert severe outcomes such as extensive lesions, pulpal involvement, or advanced periodontitis, the statement is true. Adherence can influence how well these measures work, but the fundamental purpose remains to prevent deterioration.