The effectiveness of psychological interventions for the management of gagging among dental patients: a scoping review
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Introduction A sensitive gag reflex can significantly hinder patient dental care, and the optimal management strategy remains uncertain. Psychological interventions, such as systematic desensitisation, hypnotherapy, and relaxation techniques, have been explored as potential solutions. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of psychological interventions in managing the gag reflex in dental settings.Methods We systematically searched four electronic databases up to June 2024. Two reviewers screened and assessed articles, and relevant data were extracted on the delivery and outcomes of psychological interventions for managing gagging in dental settings.Results Eight studies involving 14 participants met the inclusion criteria. The psychological interventions examined included systematic desensitisation, hypnotherapy, and relaxation techniques, with an average intervention of five sessions over 19.3 weeks. All patients tolerated dental treatments post-intervention, and 87.5% reported an absence of gagging. No adverse effects were reported.Conclusions These findings suggest that psychological interventions hold promise in managing sensitive gag reflexes in dental patients. However, further research with standardised outcomes and larger sample sizes is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Additionally, further work is required to clarify when it is appropriate for dental staff to deliver these interventions themselves or refer patients to psychologists for specialised care.
Source: BDJ
Authors: Freddie O´Donald, Molly Smith, Lindsay-Jo Sevier-Guy, Abigail Heffernan
Language: English
Subfield: Oral Surgery
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $5,190
OpenAlex ID: W4415297295