Which of the following is an example of tertiary prevention in dentistry?

• A. Periodontal Surgery
• B. Routine Cleaning
• C. Fluoride Varnish
• D. Mouth Rinse

Answer: (A)

Tertiary prevention focuses on reducing the damage and restoring function after disease has already caused harm. In dentistry, periodontal disease can destroy the tooth-supporting tissues; when initial non-surgical care isn’t enough to control the damage or to restore lost tissue, procedures like periodontal surgery aim to reduce pocket depths, regenerate or repair supporting tissues, and stabilize the tooth to prevent further disability. That restorative/rehabilitative goal after disease has progressed is what makes periodontal surgery an example of tertiary prevention. By contrast, routine cleaning, fluoride varnish, and mouth rinse are mainly about preventing disease from developing or slowing early progression, i.e., primary prevention.