“Hypnopuncture”—A Dental-Emergency Treatment Concept for Patients with A Distinctive gag reflex

Abstract

The present case report describes a newly developed dental treatment concept for patients with a distinctive gag reflex. “Hypnopuncture” is a combination therapy of hypnosis and acupuncture. Its simple, fast, and effective application autonomous of the cause makes it a valuable tool for dental-emergency treatment procedures. Physiologic and psychological aspects of gagging are influenced at the same time. The protocol is illustrated in the case of a 76-year-old patient with a severe gag reflex who was successfully treated by this combination approach. Necessary and effective therapeutic measures from both acupuncture and hypnosis are portrayed.