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FEAR OF GAGGING
One of the common problems found in dentophobic patients is the gag reflex or gagging. Gagging can be termed as a choking sensation when the airway in the mouth is constricted. This can be a real botheration when seeking dental treatment. Gagging occurs due to a number of reasons, either physiological or psychological. Psychological factors are commonly comprised of the fear of losing control and past distressing experiences or because they have been abused in the past. Physiological factors that may cause a person to gag include, not being able to breathe from the nose properly, sinusitis, catarrh, mucus or nasal polyps in nasal respiratory tract, dry mouth, medication causing nausea, and also gastro intestinal disorder can contribute to gagging. Here are some techniques on how to prevent gagging dental examinations and procedures. Always focus on breathing through your nose. Use an effective nasal decongestant prior to visiting a dentist, to keep your upper respiratory tract clear, so you can easily breathe. Cholraseptic Throat numbing sprays can be used to relieve the gag reflex in patients with gagging disorders or sufferers of cough and asthma. Gagging, most of the time is inflicted by fear. Freely discuss about your fear with you dentist, so that he/she can help you to overcome it. They are professionals and are likely able to provide a justified solution or advise to fight your fears. Gagging is also caused by discomfort. Pre-set communication signals with your doctor so that when you are in discomfort or pain, you can avoid gagging in order to say something, and just signal him to stop instead. Ask your dentist to apply topical lidocaine on your tongue prior to using any dental utensil. Lidocaine is very helpful to prevent gagging. Sitting up straight instead of lying back can also prevent gagging. Don’t feel shy to experiment and tell your doctor about your gagging disorder.
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