Which term describes the procedure aimed at preventing disease rather than repairing tooth structure?

Which term describes the procedure aimed at preventing disease rather than repairing tooth structure?

• A. Restorative
• B. Preventative
• C. Sealant
• D. Prosthetics

Answer: (B)

Procedures aimed at preventing disease rather than repairing tooth structure fall under preventative dentistry. The goal is to keep teeth healthy and intact before decay or damage occurs, through measures like sealants, fluoride treatments, cleanings, and patient education. Restorative procedures repair or replace tooth structure after damage, while prosthetics replace missing teeth. Although a sealant is a preventive measure, the general term for this approach is preventative dentistry, which is why it fits the described concept.

Procedures aimed at preventing disease rather than repairing tooth structure fall under preventative dentistry. The goal is to keep teeth healthy and intact before decay or damage occurs, through measures like sealants, fluoride treatments, cleanings, and patient education. Restorative procedures repair or replace tooth structure after damage, while prosthetics replace missing teeth. Although a sealant is a preventive measure, the general term for this approach is preventative dentistry, which is why it fits the described concept.