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

<b>Objective.</b> 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. <b>Methods.</b> Fifty-four children aged 6-11 years were randomly assigned to either a control group or an aromatherapy group. Children in the control group were asked to wear a regular scented-free nitrous oxide mask. Children in the control group were asked to wear a regular scented-free nitrous oxide mask. Children in the intervention group inhaled lavender-neroli oil via a nitrous oxide nasal mask for 5 min 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). The collected data were statistically analyzed using SPSS software 20. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for analyzing FIS results, and the independent T test and T Paired test were used for analyzing heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation results. <b>Results.</b> Results demonstrated significantly lower anxiety, heart rate, blood pressure, and pain scores in the aromatherapy group compared to the control group (<i>p</i> < 0.05), with no significant change in oxygen saturation. <b>Conclusions.</b> Lavender-neroli aromatherapy is a safe, low-cost, and effective adjunct to reduce anxiety and discomfort during pediatric dental anesthesia.