Which level of prevention would include rehab and fixed prosthodontics?

• A. Primary
• B. Secondary
• C. Tertiary
• D. Quaternary

Answer: (C)

Understanding the levels of prevention in dentistry helps explain why rehab and fixed prosthodontics fit where they do. Rehab and fixed prosthodontics are about restoring function, form, and comfort after significant damage from disease has already occurred. This goal—the reduction of disability and prevention of further complications after disease progression—is the essence of tertiary prevention.

Primary prevention aims to stop disease from developing in the first place (for example, fluoride applications or sealants to prevent caries). Secondary prevention involves early detection and treatment to halt progression of disease (such as treating early caries or gingivitis to prevent further damage). Quaternary prevention focuses on avoiding unnecessary or overly invasive interventions to protect patients from overtreatment, not on rehabilitation after damage has occurred.