Which of the following is an example of primary prevention in oral health?

• A. Vaccines
• B. Radiographic examination
• C. Scaling
• D. Extractions

Answer: (A)

Primary prevention in oral health means stopping disease before it starts by reducing risk and building protection. Vaccines fit this idea because they stimulate the immune system to prevent infections that could lead to oral health problems or their systemic consequences, effectively stopping disease before it begins. Radiographic examination is used to detect problems that are already present, so it serves as a tool for identification rather than prevention. Scaling removes plaque and calculus to lower future disease risk and is a preventive measure, but it is often viewed more as care to prevent progression once risk factors are present rather than a true pre-disease preventive step. Extractions address existing disease by removing a problematic tooth, which is a treatment rather than a preventive measure.