The gag reflex is designed to keep foreign objects out of your airway, but some people have an overactive response to objects in the mouth. Patients with a severe gag reflex can have difficulty receiving the dental care they need due to the required tools in the mouth. At Carrington Square Dental, we personalize every dental visit to our patients to ensure they are safe and comfortable. We offer accommodations to help patients with severe gag reflex at our dental center in Waxhaw, NC.
There are physical and mental aspects of a sensitive gag reflex. Some people may have an overactive gag reflex due to nerves in the back of the mouth or tissue sensitivity. However, choking experiences can heighten this sensitivity. There are techniques patients can use to relax during dental treatments to reduce the gagging response. Focusing on watching the TV and using the headphones we provide can be enough for some patients to overcome their gag reflex sensitivity. For others, we may suggest sedation dentistry for relief.
Sedation for Gag Reflex Sensitivity
If you have severe gag reflex, sedation may be the best option to help you relax during your dental visits. We offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, which can be used for those with an overactive gag reflex to feel at ease during your visit. The relaxation with both methods can allow for dental visits to go smoothly without the uncomfortable choking sensation. Our dentist can discuss the different sedation options to determine which would be better for your circumstance.
Everyone needs dental care and deserves to feel comfortable during their dental visits. At Carrington Square Dental, we care about our patients, and we strive to find the best solutions to ensure every patient is relaxed and feels at ease while in our dental chairs. If you have a severe gag reflex, talk to our dental team about the options available to improve your comfort during dental visits. Contact our office in Waxhaw, NC, to schedule your visit and make sure to let us know about your gag reflex condition.