The gag reflex is defined as one of the protective properties of the body. It manifests itself in the case of penetration into the digestive system of damaging or toxic substances. However, an increased vomiting reflex is often detected. Often such a reaction occurs during the morning hygiene procedures. Why does a gag reflex occur when brushing your teeth and how to deal with it?
Such a reaction is very characteristic for young children. It should be noted that the emetic reflex in each child is developed in its own way. Often such a reaction arises in the taste of the toothpaste, on the brush itself. However, in some cases, it may indicate a stressful condition or a disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Sometimes the vomiting reflex increases when the child gets to the dentist. In this case, the reaction is associated with fear of intervention. As practice shows, this condition disappears after a trusting relationship is established between the doctor and the baby. Sometimes children themselves provoke this reaction of the body. Thus, they are reluctant to brush their teeth.
You can cope with the situation by applying various methods. Mostly, parents should remember that almost always a reflex can be “educated”. In this case, in order to prevent an undesirable reaction in a child during toothbrushing, you should choose a comfortable brush with a small head and purchase a toothpaste of your choice. In addition, daily cleaning procedures should be performed. As a rule, over time, the child gets used to such a need, which contributes to the disappearance of this unpleasant phenomenon. However, if the methods described above did not bring the desired result, you should consult a doctor.
Morning routines include not only washing and brushing your teeth. Cleansing the tongue also needs attention. In adults, this action often causes a gag reflex. However, measures to clean the tongue are necessary.
There are special scrapers and soft brushes with which to clean. Movements should be careful and directed to the outer edge of the tongue from the root. The above actions are carried out after preliminary brushing.
If earlier the cleansing of the tongue was not carried out, then the first procedures can cause vomiting . Often this condition occurs when using toothpaste, so experts do not recommend using it during the first brushing.
In order to get rid of the gag reflex, there is a special set of exercises.
First you need to determine the site, when exposed to which a protective reaction occurs. To do this, a toothbrush should be drawn from the root of the tongue to its tip.
Massage should begin the adjacent area to the point, when exposed to which there is a reflex. You should not immediately try to move on.
You can start with evening brushing or at any convenient time. Massaging is recommended for ten seconds. In the process, discomfort may occur. However, massage will reduce sensitivity.
After a few days, the reflex will not be so active. In this case, you should not stop the exercises. On the contrary, it is recommended, if possible, to increase their duration and impact area.
It should be noted that to achieve the desired result immediately, as a rule, does not work. It may take several weeks to completely eliminate the reflex. It should be remembered that all movements must be performed carefully and not for a day to stop the procedure.
If after suppressing the reaction after a while it returns again, it is recommended to repeat the course. If this does not work, you should visit a doctor.