Dental Care For Individuals With Compromised Gag Reflex
Posted on 11/1/2023 by Weo Admin
When one feels like they are about to choke, the instinct is to gag since the spasm in the throat makes it hard to swallow and breathe. Most cases of choking can be easily fixed. If you tend to gag in the back of your mouth, you may have this problem. It's a frustrating issue that may make the patient fear the dentist and lead to bad outcomes. Consequently, many individuals put off seeing the dentist and have problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
How To Deal With A Compromised Gag Reflex
The gag reflex may be easily managed with the use of sedation dentistry. This reactive syndrome may originate from the mind, body, or both. Panic attacks brought on by the dread of dental work may make a patient feel as if they are suffocating. Extreme instances of gag reflex may complete even routine tasks like uncomfortable brushing teeth.
In addition, regular practice of a helpful relaxation technique may go a long way toward reducing your tendency to gag. There are some who practice meditation and some people need a guide to employ visual imagery. Even if it is just listening to music, it may help. The gag reflex is a common problem for cancer patients, but acupuncture has been proven to help. Dental acupuncture is often performed on the ear, specifically around the concha. The vagus nerve, which may contribute to gagging, has a connection with the ear, so knowing this is crucial. Acupuncture may help block the vagus nerve's ability to transmit impulses that cause gagging in certain persons.
Get In Touch With Us
Care that is both effective and respectful of your material sensitivities is something we strive for with every patient. Call us now to schedule an appointment with our holistic dentist if you need dental care.
Location
1739 NE 122nd Ave Portland, OR 97230-1914
Hours
Mondays & Tuesdays: 7 AM - 3 PM Wednesdays & Thursdays: 8 AM - 5 PM Fridays: Closed
When one feels like they are about to choke, the instinct is to gag since the spasm in the throat makes it hard to swallow and breathe. Most cases of choking can be easily fixed. If you tend to gag in the back of your mouth, you may have this problem. It's a frustrating issue that may make the patient fear the dentist and lead to bad outcomes. Consequently, many individuals put off seeing the dentist and have problems like tooth decay and gum disease.