Which of the following is a primary prevention measure used to prevent dental trauma?

• A. Mouth guards
• B. Pulpal therapy
• C. Extraction
• D. Fixed prosthodontics

Answer: (A)

Preventing injury before it happens is the focus. A mouth guard provides a protective barrier that absorbs and distributes the force of impacts to the mouth, reducing the risk of chipped, fractured, displaced teeth and soft-tissue injuries during sports or other high‑risk activities. This is a classic primary prevention tool because it aims to prevent trauma from occurring in the first place, rather than treating it after it happens. Other options listed are treatment or restoration steps that occur after trauma or dental problems, not measures to prevent trauma. Custom-fitted mouth guards offer the best protection and comfort, making them the most effective preventive choice.