Do Upper Dentures Make You Gag?

An upper denture can trigger gagging for several reasons. Simon's discussion shows why the answer is not always simply to make the palate smaller.

Check the shape and stability

An edge that extends too far back, an unnecessarily thick area or a denture that moves can contribute to the problem. The clinician needs to see the denture in your mouth and assess how it behaves when you speak and swallow.

Comfort and retention need balancing

Reducing the area of the palate can affect how an upper denture stays in place. That is why changes need careful assessment. For some patients, another design or an implant-retained option may be worth discussing, but suitability cannot be decided from a video.

Tell us early if you struggle

The gag reflex can involve physical and psychological factors; it is not something to dismiss or simply force yourself through. Explain whether it happens when you insert the denture, while eating, or whenever it moves. Do not trim it yourself. Simon can discuss an approach that takes both comfort and support into account.

Watch Simon explain

This article brings together the key points from Simon’s Talking Dentures episode, with practical context for patients. Watch Do Upper Dentures Make You Gag? on Talking Dentures →

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