Lavender-Neroli Aromatherapy for Reducing Dental Anxiety and Pain in Children During Anesthesia: A Two-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: This randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of lavender-neroli oil aromatherapy in managing dental anxiety and pain in children undergoing inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) anesthesia. Methods: Fifty-four children aged 6–11 years were randomly assigned to either a control group or an aromatherapy group. Children in the intervention group inhaled lavender-neroli oil via a nitrous oxide nasal mask for 5 minutes before and during IANB administration. Anxiety and pain levels were assessed pre- and post-treatment using the Facial Image Scale (FIS), Face-Legs-Activity-Cry-Consolability (FLACC) scale, and vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation). Results: Results demonstrated significantly lower anxiety, heart rate, blood pressure, and pain scores in the aromatherapy group compared to the control group (p < 0.05), with no significant change in oxygen saturation. Conclusions: Lavender-neroli aromatherapy is a safe, low-cost, and effective adjunct to reduce anxiety and discomfort during pediatric dental anesthesia.