Evaluating laser acupuncture and microcurrent stimulation for gag reflex in children

Efficacy of Low-level Laser Acupuncture and Microcurrent Electrical Stimulation on Gag Reflex on Children During Taking Dental Impression

Not applicable Interventional Alexandria University · NCT06422286

This study is testing whether laser acupuncture or microcurrent stimulation can help children who gag during dental visits feel more comfortable and less anxious.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment63 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 9 Years
SexAll
SponsorAlexandria University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Alexandria)
Trial IDNCT06422286 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of low-level laser acupuncture compared to microcurrent electrical stimulation in managing gag reflex in children during dental procedures. Children experiencing gagging that negatively impacts their dental visits will be diagnosed and randomly assigned to one of three groups: laser acupuncture, microcurrent stimulation, or placebo. Gag reflex severity and anxiety levels will be measured before and after the interventions to evaluate their effectiveness.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children without systemic diseases who exhibit moderate to severe gagging during dental procedures.

Not a fit: Patients who are taking anti-emetic drugs or are sensitive to alginate may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-invasive method to reduce gag reflex in children, improving their dental experience.

How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific combination of low-level laser acupuncture and microcurrent stimulation for gag reflex in children is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* children free of any systemic disease or special health care needs
* children with score 2 or 3 according to the frankle behavioral rating scale
* a full arch maxillary alginate impression is needed
* moderate to severe gagging according to the gagging severity index
* written informed consent of the legal guardian

Exclusion Criteria:

* children taking anti-emetic drugs
* children sensitive to alginate

Where this trial is running

Alexandria

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Gagginggag reflexdental anxietylow-level laser
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.