Breathe through your nose slowly and steadily
Exhale fully before anything touches the back of your mouth
Relax your jaw, tongue, and shoulders
Keep your chin slightly down
Use a toothbrush or tongue scraper gently and gradually
Start with small, shallow movements and increase slowly over time
Practice desensitizing the area with a clean finger or soft toothbrush
Avoid eating right before activities that trigger gagging
Use saltwater gargles if recommended by a dentist or doctor
Try swallowing while pressing your thumb in your left hand
Focus on breathing and distraction during triggers
Use numbing products only if advised by a dentist or doctor
See a dentist if dental work triggers gagging
See a doctor if gagging is frequent, severe, or sudden
Seek urgent care if gagging comes with trouble breathing, swallowing, or chest pain