Fear of Gagging during impressions

[ilovelucy54]

I am 51, and 18 months ago had the rest of my teeth removed, and temp dentures in. I adjusted pretty good to them, although I knew they didn't fit as well as time when on. I was supposed to get my permanant dentures made 6 months later. Due to this fear I have of the procedure of making the impressions, choking, gagging, feeling like I am going to panic, I put off getting the permanent ones made. Now the bottom denture broke and I have no choice. I need to get new ones that fit, and I am so scared of having this impression made. It's not like I haven't done it before, as I have in the past had a partial, etc. What can I do? I will take a Xanax before.
Any advice? Thanks!

 

[vicki]

Hi



I don't know whether you've had a look at the website, but there's a useful page about gagging which includes some advice and tips for dealing with it:

How can I prevent gagging in the dentist's chair?

Our readers share their tips for preventing gagging at the dentist's: coping with X-rays, impressions, brushing teeth, dental treatment, dentures, and more.

www.dentalfearcentral.org

From what I've read, a lot of it can depend on the root cause of the gagging problem. Has it always been a problem for as long as you can remember? Also, are you scared of anything else during treatment which could perhaps make things worse?

As you said, you've done it before - so you will be able to find the courage to do it again. Maybe it's a question of trying different things and seeing what works for you? Perhaps medication before the appointment might help - have you discussed this problem with your dentist?

I do know that there's only so many times that you can repair a denture yourself using some sort of glue though. I should know - I had to glue my mum's temporary plate/denture thing back together so many times while she was waiting for her implants (not because she's phobic - she just couldn't be bothered to make an appointment at the dentists )!. They don't last forever... however much you'd like them to . But just think of the dazzling smile you'll have if you do get the impressions made and then permanent dentures . You will be able to do this somehow. If you read through some of the success stories on here, most people find a way to beat their fear (whatever it is) eventually - it's just a question of finding what works for you. Please don't feel alone in your fear - there are others posting on here who also have a bad gag reflex and who are also scared of choking and panicking etc.

Please feel free to post on here for advice, support or questions etc.

 

[mdakers1]

Ilovelucy, how did you make out?? I found that by concentrating on breathing through my nose and closing my eyes, it wasn't too bad...