In BDSM, a gag is one of the most iconic tools. With just a gag, speech is stripped away, helplessness increases, and control belongs entirely to the Dom.
For the Sub, a gag is a sign of submission and trust. For the Dom, it is a tool that expresses power and dominance. However, because it restricts breathing and communication, a gag must be used correctly to ensure safety – consent – pleasure.
This article will help you understand what a gag is, the common types of gags, how to choose and buy one, as well as safety guidelines for use in BDSM.
What is a gag in BDSM?
A gag is a BDSM device designed to be placed in or over the mouth of the wearer, limiting their ability to speak, and in many cases, causing them to only produce muffled sounds or indistinct noises.
In a Dom/Sub relationship, a gag is not just a sex toy but also a symbol of control and submission. When the Sub is gagged, they no longer have the ability to communicate verbally, forcing them to use their eyes, gestures, and breathing to convey emotions. This creates an intense and sensual connection between the two parties.
At a psychological level, the gag gives the Sub a feeling of helplessness and restraint, while simultaneously arousing excitement from being completely controlled by the Dom. Conversely, the Dom can enjoy the thrilling silence, where every tiny whimper becomes a signal of pleasure and surrender.
The very contrast between the loss of language and the enhancement of sensation makes the gag a distinctive element in many BDSM sessions.
The history of ballgag
The game of gagging is not a new invention in modern BDSM. Gags have existed for centuries, associated with both aspects:
- Tools of punishment and control: Throughout history, gagging has been used as a form of punishment, preventing the bound person from calling for help or resisting.
- Fetishization factor: As BDSM gradually came to be seen as a non-traditional sexual practice, the gag quickly became a symbol of sensuality – especially the ball gag, which is closely associated with imagery in pornographic films and popular culture.
Cover of magazine Bound & Gagged issue 106:
Nowadays, gags are no longer seen as tools of violence, but have become safe play instruments – controlled, helping to recreate feelings of confinement and helplessness but within a consensual context. The development of various types of gags, from rubber balls and plastic rings to specialized medical gags, shows that the BDSM community has continuously innovated to transform them into tools for sensory stimulation, enhancing connection and sexual excitement.
Common types of gags
In BDSM, gags come in various shapes and sizes, each providing a different experience and level of restriction. When choosing, you should consider the purpose of play, the comfort level of the submissive, and safety.
1. Gag mở miệng
This is a gag that keeps the mouth open for the Dom to easily access inside, while also limiting the Sub's speech.
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Ring Gag (O-ring):
One of the most popular types. A metal or plastic ring is placed between the teeth, secured with a strap. When worn, the Sub's mouth is always in an open state, creating a feeling of helplessness and accessibility for oral play. Ring gags come in various sizes, with some larger versions allowing for the insertion of additional sex toys (such as a dildo) to enhance humiliation. -
Spider Gag:
A variant of the ring gag with metal bars radiating out like spider legs, keeping the ring securely in place without shifting. This type enhances the aesthetic element while emphasizing the feeling of being "forced." It is often used in the context of humiliation play, when the Dom wants the Sub to completely lose control of their mouth. - Open Mouth Gag (Dental Gag / Jennings Gag): This type is inspired by dental instruments. It consists of two curved metal pieces placed at the corners of the mouth, which are then tightened using a spring or screw, forcing the Sub to open their mouth wide at the Dom's command. Unlike the ring gag or spider gag that only holds the mouth in a central position, the dental gag pulls both corners of the mouth apart, causing the face to distort significantly, creating a feeling of both helplessness and a sense of "medical coercion." This is a common choice in medical fetish or humiliation play, and it requires the Dom to pay special attention to avoid pulling too hard, which could cause lip tears or jaw pain.
2. Full Mouth Gag (Over the Mouth – OTM)
Unlike other types of mouth openers, the OTM gag is designed to completely cover the mouth, preventing the Sub from speaking or clearly moaning.
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Tape Gag (using BDSM tape):
This is a familiar image in many bondage films. A strip of tape is placed across the mouth to seal it shut, allowing the Sub to only breathe through the nose. However, it is absolutely essential not to use regular tape, but to choose a type specifically designed for BDSM to ensure safety for the skin and ease of removal. -
Panel Gag:
It is a large piece of leather or rubber that completely covers the mouth, secured with a strap behind the head. This type creates a strong feeling of confinement and helplessness, suitable for play sessions focused on the sensation of restraint. -
Muzzle Gag:
Similar to an animal muzzle, it is made up of multiple leather straps that encircle the head, tightly securing the mouth. The muzzle gag not only restricts speech but also evokes a sense of the Sub being diminished, becoming a "pet" in Pet Play. This type is highly symbolic in power exchange play sessions.
3. Gag đi sâu vào miệng
This gag group not only restricts speech but also intervenes deeper into the oral cavity, creating a stronger sensation.
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Ball Gag:
The most popular type in BDSM. A ball made of silicone or rubber is placed behind the teeth, secured with a leather strap. When worn, the Sub can hardly speak, only making muffled sounds. The ball gag is considered the "symbol" of gags in BDSM because it is easy to use, easy to buy, and creates a strong erotic effect. -
Bit Gag (horizontal gag):
Inspired by horse bridles. A soft rubber or plastic bar is placed horizontally in the mouth, secured by straps on both sides. The bit gag allows the Sub to breathe more easily compared to a ball gag, while also creating an image reminiscent of a pet – suitable for Pet Play or impact play. -
Funnel Gag:
Shaped like a funnel, it is tightly secured to the Sub's head. The mouth of the funnel leads directly into the throat and is often used to force the Sub to drink liquids. This type carries a high risk, as it can easily cause choking and asphyxiation, and is only suitable for experienced players who have thoroughly prepared for safety.
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Penis Gag:
It is a dildo attached to a strap, which the Sub must keep in their mouth as if performing oral sex. This type is often used for humiliation play, when the Dom wants to emphasize the Sub's role in sexual submission.
4. Simple fabric gag
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Cleave Gag:
One of the easiest types of gags to make. Use a cloth, fabric, or silk stuffed between the teeth, tied tightly behind the neck. The cleave gag is not too tight but still enough to restrict speech. It is often chosen when a lighter, more playful experience is desired rather than a heavy restraint.
In general, ball gags and bit gags are ideal choices for beginners, while ring gags, inflatable gags, and panel gags are often more suitable for experienced users.
Benefits of Using Gags in BDSM
A gag is not just a simple sex toy, but also offers many layers of physical and psychological experiences in BDSM.
1. Enhance the feeling of helplessness and power
When the Sub is gagged, they lose the ability to speak and become more vulnerable. This creates excitement for both sides: the Sub feels a sense of surrender, while the Dom feels absolute control.
2. Amplifying other senses
When speech is taken away, the Sub often becomes more sensitive to sensations on the skin, sounds, and sights... This enforced silence sharpens the remaining senses.
3. Increase connectivity and trust
Wearing a gag requires the Sub to have absolute trust in the Dom, as they cannot communicate normally. This deepens the Dom/Sub relationship, based on a foundation of consent and responsibility.
4. Add drama and sensuality
A gag with a strong aesthetic appeal in BDSM. The image of tightly sealed lips evokes visual and emotional stimulation, enhancing the role-playing aspect in sessions.
The gag game offers clear benefits, but to fully enjoy it, players need to understand how to use the gag safely.
Safety principles when playing gag
1. There is always a safe signal to replace the safeword
- Since the Sub cannot speak while wearing a gag, agree on a non-verbal signal, for example: shaking the head vigorously, dropping the hand three times, or holding an object (bell, small ball) to drop when needing to stop.
2. Monitor your breath
- Ensure the gag does not obstruct the airway. If the Sub has respiratory issues, asthma, or severe sinusitis, it is advisable to avoid using the gag.
- Always allow Sub to breathe easily through the nose.
3. Do not tighten too much
- The strap should be just tight enough to secure it, but not so tight that it causes pain in the jaw, cheeks, or leaves heavy marks.
4. Reasonable usage time
- New users should only wear the gag for 5–10 minutes to get accustomed.
- Once accustomed, it can be prolonged but still requires Dom to check regularly.
5. Never abandon Sub
- This is the golden rule of BDSM in general. The sub is in a position of powerlessness, so the Dom must always be on the lookout, ready to remove the gag when necessary.
6. Hygiene before and after use
- Gags often come into direct contact with the mouth and saliva. Be sure to clean them thoroughly with a specialized sex toy cleaner or mild soap, and let them dry completely before storing.
How to choose suitable mouth gag toys
Not all types of gags are suitable for everyone. Choosing the right type of gag will help make the experience both safe and more pleasurable.
1. Choose based on experience and skill level
- Newcomers: should start with a small bit gag or ball gag, which is comfortable and causes less jaw tension.
- Experienced individuals: can try ring gags, panel gags, inflatable gags to increase the challenge.
2. Safe materials
- Priority is given to medical silicone, ABS plastic, genuine leather, or high-quality PU.
- Avoid cheap gags that have a strong plastic smell or a surface that easily peels, as they can be harmful when in contact with the mouth.
3. Size and Adjustment
- The strap should have a buckle or multiple notches for easy adjustment.
- Ball gags should come in various sizes (small - medium - large) for the Sub to choose according to their preference.
4. Aesthetic factors
- If you want to create a dramatic, sensual atmosphere, you can choose a gag panel or a gag combined with a mask.
- For more relaxed gaming sessions, a simple bit gag is a refined choice.
A suitable gag is not only a sensual tool but also demonstrates the Dom's concern for the Sub's safety and comfort.
Conclusion
A gag is one of the simplest yet most powerful tools in the world of BDSM. It not only creates a sense of sensuality and drama but also expands the experience of power – submission, helplessness, and a deep connection between the Dom and Sub.
However, to fully enjoy it, players must always prioritize safety and consent: choose the right type of gag, agree on a safety signal, monitor breathing, and never leave the Sub unattended. A gag used correctly will turn a play session into a pleasurable and memorable experience.
If you want to learn more about gags, sensation play, or safe BDSM techniques, you can schedule a consultation or join workshop with Mistress Elena – a BDSM expert with over 6 years of experience, who has been guiding, training, and building a safe community for those who wish to explore non-traditional sexuality safely.
