Journal of Research in Pharmacy Practice

Dental patient anxiety: Possible deal with Lavender fragrance

Authors

. Md. Zabirunnisa 1
. Jayaprakash S. Gadagi 2
. Praveen Gadde 1
. Nagamalleshwari Myla 3
. Jyothirmai Koneru 4
. Chandrasekhar Thatimatla 5

1 Department of Public Health Dentistry, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India

2 Department of Periodontics, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India

3 Department of Orthodontics, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India

4 Department of Oral Medicine, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India

5 Department of Public Health dentistry, Lenora Dental College, Rajahmundry, India

Abstract
Objective: The pure essence of plants (essential oils) provides both psychological and 
physiological benefits when used accurately and safely. Conventionally, Lavender oil is known 
for relaxing, carminative, and sedative effects. Hence, an attempt was made to know the 
effect of Lavender essential oil on dental patient anxiety.
Methods: The present study included two comparison groups (Lavender and control 
group), each comprising five dental clinics. In Lavender group, the ambient odor of Lavender
essential oil was maintained with the help of a candle warmer in the reception area and in 
the control group, candle warmer with normal water was used. A total of 597 patients, aged 
above 18 years were included. A questionnaire comprising demographic information, and a 
modified dental anxiety scale was given to the patients in waiting room, and data regarding 
anxiety levels was recorded.
Findings: Student’s t‑test (unpaired) showed a significant reduction in anxiety scores of 
Lavender group compared with the control group. Analysis of variances test showed reduction 
in anxiety scores as age increased in Lavender group.
Conclusion: Fragrance of Lavender oil at reception area may effectively reduce the patient’s 
state or current anxiety. This practice on routine usage can improve the quality of dental 
treatments.

Keywords

Aromatherapy
dental anxiety
dental treatments
Lavender oil
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Journal of Research in Pharmacy Practice
Volume 3, Issue 3
Summer 2014
Pages 100-103

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