Using aromatherapy to reduce anxiety and pain during dental treatments
Official title: Effects of Aromatherapy on Anxiety and Pain During Dental Treatment in Adults: a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Run by Sichuan University · NCT06347679 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if using sweet orange and tea tree essential oils during dental treatments can help reduce anxiety and pain for adults.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Sichuan University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chengdu, Sichuan) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | May 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | September 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | May 16, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06347679 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults requiring dental treatments such as fillings, root canals, or extractions who can understand and consent to the study.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with allergies to the essential oils, severe systemic conditions, or those currently using sedatives or analgesics may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effects of aromatherapy using sweet orange and tea tree essential oils on anxiety and pain levels in adults undergoing various dental procedures. Participants will be exposed to these essential oils through an aroma diffuser during their treatment. The goal is to determine if these natural scents can help alleviate discomfort and anxiety associated with dental visits. The study will include assessments before, during, and after dental treatments to measure the outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a non-invasive method to help patients manage anxiety and pain during dental procedures.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of aromatherapy in medical settings is gaining interest, this specific application in dental anxiety is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients who need dental treatment, such as resin filling, root canal treatment, periodontal initial treatment, tooth extraction, etc. * Be able to understand the purpose of the study and volunteer to take part in the study. * Be able to complete all assessments and follow-up during the study. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who are allergic to the ingredients of the essential oils used in the experiment or to the materials used in the dental treatment. * Patients who underwent only an oral examination. * Patients with severe heart disease, hypertension, respiratory disease, or other systemic conditions that were not eligible for trial participation. * Pregnant or lactating women. * People with depressive symptoms, anxiety disorders or other mental illnesses that affect their mood state. * People who are using sedative or analgesic drugs. * Recent or current users of essential oil. * Any circumstances considered by the investigator to be inappropriate for participation in this study.
Where it's running
-
West China Hospital of Stomatology SIchuan University
Chengdu, Sichuan, China Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: He Cai, MD PhD
- Email: caihe.dr@scu.edu.cn
- Phone: +86-13281167556
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.