THE POINT OF A HUNDRED DISEASES, ACUPUNCTURE FOR GAG REFLEX IN CHILDREN- A REVIEW

Dr. Amith Adyanthaya; Dr. P.Prathyusha; Dr. Amal Sidharth; Dr. Thusha T.S

Volume : VIII, Issue : I, January - 2019

THE POINT OF A HUNDRED DISEASES, ACUPUNCTURE FOR GAG REFLEX IN CHILDREN- A REVIEW

Dr. Amith Adyanthaya, Dr. P. Prathyusha, Dr. Amal Sidharth, Dr. Thusha T. S

Abstract :

Traditional acupuncture has been introduced more than 2500 years ago which provides an alternative and complementary option during clinical practices. Its main mechanism is based on stimulating the nerves by altering the processes and perception of pain transmitters. It facilitates releasing natural pain relievers such as endorphins and serotonin. Its success for various dental procedures has been proved. However, its effects on controlling the gag reflex seem to be overlooked. The gag reflex is recognized as a protective reaction for stopping the entrance of any foreign bodies into the oropharynx. Pronounced gag reflexes can have negative impacts on the quality of dental procedures especially in children. Many techniques have been suggested for managing this reflex and acupuncturing is one of those which seems to be overlooked recently. This paper reviews the published researches about the efficacy of this technique for eliminating the gag reflex during dental procedures