Which of the following is an example of tertiary prevention?

• A. Rehabilitation
• B. Space maintainers
• C. Pulpal therapy
• D. Fluoride varnish.

Answer: (C)

Tertiary prevention is about restoring function and preventing further disability after disease has occurred. In dentistry, once caries has reached the pulp and the tooth is compromised, pulpal therapy directly addresses that diseased tissue to save the tooth and maintain its function. By removing or isolating the affected pulp and sealing the canal or chamber, the tooth can continue to function normally, preventing extraction and the need for more extensive reconstruction later. This rehabilitative approach embodies the idea of minimizing damage and preserving structure after disease has already begun, which is the essence of tertiary prevention.

Fluoride varnish, by contrast, aims to prevent caries from developing in the first place, so it’s primary prevention. Space maintainers are used to prevent malocclusion after premature tooth loss, serving a preventive/orthodontic purpose rather than treating disease to restore a tooth’s function.