A 42-year-old member asked:
Is there a way to not gag when i get my teeth cleaned?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. Kyle Shankanswered
Dentistry 15 years experience
Suggestions...: Practicing placing a spoon on the back of the tongue can help some people to overcome the gag reflex. In the office, laughing gas (nitrous oxide) and oral conscious sedation often help as well.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Media Najafianswered
Dentistry 24 years experience
Distraction: If the suction is not the cause of gagging
then distract yourself by wiggling your toes or thinking of something else. Take frequent breaks during cleaning.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 34-year-old member asked:
What can I do to get my teeth squeaky clean?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. Marshall Dickeranswered
Dentistry 48 years experience
Clean teeth: 1 see your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning
2 floss and brush after each meal.....You asked
3. Get a water pik and use it twice a day am
and right before bed
4 use the toothbrush your dentist reccommends ( i like a motorized tooth brush for my patients )
do all this and you will be good
esp #1 above.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 19-year-old male asked:
I have gunk on my teeth. How do I get it cleaned?
5 doctor answers • 27 doctors weighed in

Dr. BARRY ETONanswered
General Practice 57 years experience
Tartar: Food debris and bacteria which must be removed to avoid cavities and gum disease !
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 48-year-old member asked:
Why do I get sick after having my teeth cleaned?
1 doctor answer • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. Stephen Gordonanswered
45 years experience
Bacteria/Resistance: You may have significant amounts of bacteria which are removed, but in cleaning an aerosol may be created and if you have a lowered resistance, then you may get sick.
Possibly, you may need to have more frequent teeth cleanings and consider perioprotect a non-invasive home treatment to significantly remove the bacteria on a daily basis.
www.perioprotect.com for a dentist near you.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jan 14, 2016
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