What does primary prevention prevent?

• A. Caries, gingivitis, trauma
• B. Caries only
• C. Trauma only
• D. Gingivitis only

Answer: (A)

Primary prevention means stopping disease before it starts. In dentistry, this means taking steps that keep teeth and gums healthy and protect teeth from injury. It targets multiple oral health issues, not just one. For caries, fluoride applications and sealants strengthen enamel and make decay less likely. For gingivitis, education on brushing, flossing, and effective plaque control helps keep gums healthy. For trauma, protective devices like mouthguards during sports reduce the risk of chipped or knocked-out teeth. Because primary prevention covers these preventive measures across different problems, the option that lists caries, gingivitis, and trauma together best captures its scope. The other choices imply protection of only a single condition, which misses the broader aim of preventing multiple common problems.