Gag Reflex and Prosthodontic Procedures - A Comparative Study

Gagging is a characteristic feature of the upper respiratory tract to keep check of any foreign body. Severe gagging can occur during dental and prosthodontic procedures, which may cause irritation to the clinician and patient leading to compromised quality of treatment. This study was aimed to assess the relationship between gagging and various prosthodontic procedures thereby to improve the overall quality of treatment provided. Fifty Patients undergoing various prosthodontics treatments in our institution were selected for the study. A self-structured questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence and severity of the gag reflex. Results revealed that females had more gagging during prosthodontic procedures compared to males. 40% of patients who underwent fixed partial denture fabrication and 41.67% who were treated for temporary partial denture construction expressed gagging. From the present study it is evident that increased awareness is necessary to manage patients with gagging as it is major road block in providing quality prosthodontic treatment.