The Management of Blood Phobia and A Hypersensitive Gag Reflex by Hypnotherapy: A Case Report

From Volume 29, Issue 2, March 2002 | Pages 70-74

Authors

Suzanne Noble

BDS, MDent Sci, MFGDP(UK)

Associate Specialist, South Birmingham Community Health NHS Trust

Articles by Suzanne Noble

Abstract

Coping with a hypersensitive gag reflex can be a cause for concern for both the patient and the operator. This report describes a case of blood phobia directed solely towards the oral cavity, linked with the inability to tolerate dentures due to a hypersensitive gag reflex. Management by hypnotherapy using a systematic desensitization technique allowed for extraction of teeth and permanent elimination of the gagging problem.

Article