Gagging is a normal protective reflex to protect the airway and remove irritant material from the throat.
This can become a problem if it is triggered involuntarily by instruments placed in the mouth and can be a real barrier to treatment or stopping people from seeking treatment. Sitting in the dental chair can be enough to trigger the response in some patients.
Treatment always begins with a full assessment and a sympathetic approach followed by appropriate strategies to help with the provision of the dental procedures.
- Relaxation techniques
- Distraction and desensitisation techniques
- Complimentary medicine – Acupuncture and Hypnosis
- Psychological and behavioural therapies
- Local anaesthesia techniques.
