Knowledge Attitude and Awareness of Dental Students about the Role of Acupuncture in Controlling Gag Reflex

Abstract

Introduction:

Gagging is a normal reaction to safeguard the airway from foreign body entry. In some patients this is exaggerated and hence may hinder the dental treatment. There are many methods to control gagging and one of it is acupuncture which a traditional Chinese method.

Aim:

This survey is done to assess the knowledge attitude and awareness of dental students about the role of acupuncture in controlling gag reflex.

Materials and methods :

A questionnaire with 11 questions based in the acupuncture and its effect in gagging were prepared and distributed through an online link to a total of 80 students and the results were obtained.

Results:

45% of the students are aware of acupuncture used for preventing gagging and no one have ever done acupuncture in their clinical practice.

Conclusion:

Awareness should be created about the acupuncture and its benefits in controlling the gag reflex since  it is an effortless and effective treatment.