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How to Stop Denture Gag Reflex

For patients who have just been fitted for dentures there can be a problem with denture gag reflex. Often patients will adjust to the dentures and the gag reflex will end after a short period of time. Denture wearers who are not able to get past the gag reflex in a timely manner have a few options that can offer relief.

  1. Check Denture Fitting

    • Dentures that fit properly should settle into place after some time. If they are not fitting properly, the patient should consult the dentist regarding proper fit. The dentist may be able to make adjustments to the dentures to help with the patient's problem. Often the length of the denture reaching to the back of the throat is too long causing irritation and keeping the gag reflex around much longer than expected.

    Acupuncture

    • Some patients find that acupuncture can provide relief from denture gag reflex for a short period of time. Though it is not likely to be a permanent solution to the problem, it can suppress it long enough for the patient to adjust to the dentures in the mouth. Once the patient gets used to the dentures, the gag reflex problem should diminish so he can wear the dentures with few or no problems.

    Acupressure

    • Gag reflex can be controlled with acupressure by using pressure points on the body to control the reflex actions. It is believed that the palm is the pressure location to be used to control the gag reflex. This requires repeated pressure to the area at times when the gag reflex occurs. Although the technique may not work for everyone, evidence recorded by the Journal of the American Dental Association indicates effectiveness.

    Dental Implants

    • If there is no other way to get over the gag reflex from dentures, a patient should ask his dentist about dental implants. The implants will take the place of the dentures and act just like the original teeth. There is no top plate to aggravate the mouth and cause the gag reflex to occur. The dental implants are a long-term solution for dental issues, missing teeth and dentures.

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