Final answer:
An athletic trainer should instruct patients on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular dental cleanings, and maintaining a low-sugar diet. Regular use of fluoride and professional dental care are also important for the prevention and management of periodontal disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
Preventing Periodontal Disease
An athletic trainer educating patients on the prevention of periodontal disease should highlight the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes regular brushing and flossing, which help prevent the buildup of plaque, the primary catalyst for periodontal issues.
It is critical to explain that healthy gums hold the teeth firmly and do not bleed, as shown in Figure 24.10(a). The progression from mild conditions like gingivitis, characterized by inflamed and irritated gums, to more severe periodontitis, where gums recede and expose the tooth, is generally reversible with proper oral care.
Patients should be encouraged to attend regular dental cleanings to remove tartar and detect decay in its early stages. Additionally, they should be educated on the damaging effects of a high-sugar diet and the benefits of sugarless candies or gum with sugar alcohols for reducing acid production.
Fluoride treatments and the ingestion of fluoridated water should also be recommended to strengthen tooth minerals and reduce the incidence of dental caries. In cases where plaque buildup is evident, patients may be prescribed aspirin or other preventive medications to combat inflammation.
Periodontal disease is preventable with consistent and proper dental care. For advanced stages of the condition, such as advanced periodontitis, professional dental intervention and possibly antibiotics may be necessary to control the infection and prevent further damage to teeth and surrounding structures.