Understanding the Gag Reflex: What it is and Why it Happens
The gag reflex is your body’s way of protecting you. It helps stop anything from going down the wrong way. But when that reflex is extra sensitive, even simple things...

As a dental professional for over 33 years, Dr. Robert Olson saw a common challenge: the gag reflex. One patient in particular struggled so much that treatment slowed and embarrassment grew.
That’s when the idea for NoGag was born. Dr. Olson realized people don’t gag while eating — so if the brain could be signaled “I’m about to be fed,” the reflex could be suppressed. It worked then, and it has continued to work for 24 years with a 100% success rate.
How Does NoGag Work?
NoGag operates by interacting with Nerve 9 within the soft palate, the nerve responsible for the gag reflex.. This interaction assists in suppressing the gag reflex, making it an invaluable tool during dental and oral care procedures. It is non-numbing and has no impact on the vocal cords.
What is NoGag Made Out Of?
NoGag is a revolutionary gag reflex solution specifically designed for dental and at-home oral care. It consists of salt and citric acid in a patented ratio, ensuring assisted suppression of the gag reflex. For more detailed safety information, please refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) available at www.nogag.com.
How Effective is NoGag?
NoGag eliminates the gag reflex within 10 seconds and maintains its effect for approximately 60 minutes. NoGag is 94% effective as compared to salt or citric acid alone. Additionally, West Coast University school received a national award in research for showing NoGag had a 70% reduction in the gag reflex as compared to no intervention. This 3x patented solution provides a calm and stress-free experience for dental patients, hygienists, and dentists alike, facilitating effective dental procedures. NoGag is happy to provide clinical evidence and MSDS upon request.
Where is NoGag Made?
NoGag is proudly made in Utah within the USA, adhering to high standards of quality and safety.
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The Hidden Dental Problem Affecting 26M Americans
A severe gag reflex impacts 8% of the global population – hindering dental care for hundreds of millions. In the U.S. alone, 26 million people suffer from this issue.
Orion Innovations Introduces NoGag at IDS 2025
Live from IDS 2025 in Cologne, Germany, our Chief Commercial Officer Chris Schnee discussed the many benefits of NoGag with Dentistry Today Editor-in-Chief Paul Feuerstein, DMD.
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Editor-in-Chief Kevin Henry speaks with Orion Innovations CEO Rodney Schutt about the often-overlooked issue of the gag reflex in dentistry.
2,000 Dental Offices and Counting: A New Milestone For Nogag
NoGag, a fast-acting, five-time patented powder, eliminates the gag reflex in just 10 seconds – helping dentists treat patients more comfortably and efficiently.
Orion Innovations Named One of the 2024 Products of the Year
Named one of Incisal Edge’s 2024 Products of the Year, NoGag suppresses the gag reflex in just 10 seconds and lasts up to an hour by mimicking the sensation of swallowing food.
Holmes Dental Teams Up with Orion Innovations to Stop the Gag Reflex
Holmes Dental is excited to partner with Orion Innovations to bring NoGag, a fast-acting, 60-minute gag reflex solution, to patients. Made from safe, food-based ingredients, NoGag helps eliminate gagging during dental procedures, making visits more comfortable and efficient for both patients and providers.
Clinical Case Study: NoGag achieves 70% reduction of the gag reflex.
Studied by West Coast University, NoGag was shown to significantly reduce exaggerated pharyngeal reflex by an average of 70% for one hour as compared to no intervention.
Case Study: NoGag achieves 94% Effectiveness for One Hour
Studied by Orion Innovations Inc., NoGag significantly reduced the gag reflex as compared to salt or citric acid alone, with a duration of effectiveness for one hour.