Why does my upper denture make me gag so much? I only wear it when I eat or must leave home because I can’t stop gagging. Do I need another denture? Thanks. Janet from KS
Janet,
After an exam, a skilled cosmetic dentist can determine whether you need a new or modified denture.
What Causes Gagging While Wearing a Denture?
The lower denture has a shorter palate
Removable dentures cover your entire palate to create suction and keep the denture in place. Ideally, a removable denture should extend to the “vibrating line” where the hard and soft palates meet. However, if the denture extends too far back on your soft palate, it can trigger gagging.
What Can Prevent Denture Gagging?
An implant denture is the most effective solution for eliminating gagging with dentures because it only covers the gum tissue, minimizing gagging.
If implant-supported dentures are not within your budget, an implant dentist can discuss alternatives to address the gagging issue. Creating a slightly shorter denture palate can minimize gagging.
Dr. Finlay Sutton, a prosthodontist in Lancashire, England, has published a technique for managing severe gagging in denture patients. His method involves trimming the denture base to a location short of the vibrating line, as illustrated in his published photographs of dentures on plaster casts.
The upper image shows a denture extending to the vibrating line, while the lower image depicts a trimmed denture for gag-sensitive patients. Precise trimming is crucial, as excessive or incorrect reduction can compromise suction and retention.
Consult a skilled cosmetic dentist to discuss your options.