Buzz
A visit to the dentist doesn’t need to be daunting. But for those with a sensitive gag reflex or dental anxiety, it can be challenging. Here are some strategies to help you avoid gagging and make your dental appointments more comfortable.
Steps
Focus on breathing through your nose.
This prevents feeling the airflow across your mouth, especially when it's filled with dental tools. If you're congested, consider using a nasal decongestant or saline spray before your appointment.
Try using a throat numbing spray.
This spray can temporarily reduce your gag reflex. Apply it to your throat 2-3 times just before your dental appointment. Its numbing effect typically lasts for up to an hour.
Massage some table salt onto your tongue.
This simple remedy can help decrease your gag reflex. Rub a small amount of table salt onto the tip and sides of your tongue before your dental treatment. Salt stimulates your taste sensors, making your gag reflex less intense.
Place a graham cracker beneath your tongue.
Enjoy music while at the dentist.
Music serves as a distraction, reducing the urge to gag. Put on headphones and play your favorite songs to immerse yourself in the music and alleviate the sensation of gagging.
Hum when dental tools are inserted.
Humming prevents gagging. When the dentist inserts a tool that triggers your gag reflex, start humming. The vibrations in your nasal passage prevent gagging.
Elevate your lower leg off the dental chair.
Contracting leg muscles distracts from gagging. When you feel like gagging, raise your lower leg off the chair and hold it up. This additional movement can divert your brain's attention away from gagging.
- Consult your dentist before attempting this technique to ensure it doesn't disrupt their work.
- Combine this with other distractions such as humming or listening to music for enhanced effectiveness.
Arrange appointments for later in the day.
Gag reflexes may be more pronounced in the morning. If this applies to you, schedule dental appointments for the afternoon. This can help reduce the urge to gag while in the dentist's chair!
- Alternatively, if your gag reflex is worse later in the day, opt for morning appointments.
Request sedation from your dentist.
Under sedation, you won't experience gagging during dental procedures. Inquire with your dentist about options like nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation. These methods ensure a comfortable procedure without any gagging sensations.
- Keep in mind that after the appointment, you won't be able to drive, so arrange for transportation.
- For those with severe dental anxiety, sedation may be the preferred choice.
Train yourself not to gag while brushing your teeth.
This can desensitize your gag reflex. Practice brushing your tongue and reaching the back of your throat with your toothbrush without triggering a gag reflex. Work on resisting the urge to gag to gradually reduce your sensitivity.
- Remember, gagging is a natural response to stimuli near the throat, but with practice, you can diminish its intensity.
