An easy and effective way to reduce gag during orthodontic impression recording

Abstract

Introduction: Gag reflex is one of the most common problems encountered during impression taking for orthodontic records. Various methods advocated for gag reflex control include behavior modification, acupuncture and pharmacological agents.

Material and Methods: Study was carried out on 30 patients at University College of Dentistry, the University of Lahore. The severity of gag was recorded by gag severity index. After addition of local anesthetic to impression material, gag preventive index was used to determine the efficacy.

Results: Male to female ratio was 1:1. Mean age was 21.6 ± 6.9 years. Wilcoxon signed ranked test showed statistically significant reduction of gag (p= .000) with addition of local anesthetic.

Conclusions: Addition of local anesthetic to impression material in patients with gagging results in significant reduction in gag reflex