Essential Oils for going to the Dentist Office
I am not a doctor or a dentist; I am simply a jittery patient who does not particularly enjoy being in the dentist’s chair. Here are some essential oils tips to help a dental visit not bite.
How can aromatherapy assist an oral appointment? (Be sure to check out Essential Oils 101 and my other resources to learn the basics of what oils are and how they work.)
The use of a personal diffuser necklace may be just what you’re looking for. There are many different styles of diffuser jewelry to explore, but the main gist is that drops of oil are applied to an absorbent material that can be worn and enjoyed aromatically throughout the day. My favorite store to purchase diffuser necklaces and bracelets from is Lowcountry Eclectic – and they happen to be a wonderful family business. I have no partnership with them; I simply truly recommend them personally. Their pieces are so cute, creative, and long-lasting!
Don’t have a diffuser necklace? There are so many makeshift ideas I use to smell essential oils, like:
- a drop on a neck scarf.
- Or on a handkerchief or tissue in your shirt pocket.
- I’ve been known to put a drop of oil on a cotton ball and place it in my bra before (nice during yoga class sometimes!).
- Ask your dental office if you can place a drop on your spit bib/paper thing they place around your neck.
- Make your own clothespin car diffuser.
- Be creative, or you may simply waft/inhale an aroma from the bottle before your appointment.
Most essential oils may be applied topically as well (I only use Young Living brand), so refer to each bottle’s label for usage. Consider massaging the soothing oils below onto the hands, wrists, neck, etc as well (generally with a carrier oil), or drops in your palm/cup your nose to breathe.
Which aromas should I use? Here are a few essential oils to consider for being brave at the dentist.
Citrus Fresh – This oil is one of my favorites because it combines Orange, Tangerine, Grapefruit, Lemon, and Mandarin oils with a hint of Spearmint. It can transform any space to invite positivity and energy, and is often my signature perfume on my diffuser necklace. Side note: Dilute Citrus Fresh essential oil in a 1:1 ratio with your favorite night moisturizer and apply to skin for smoother-looking, more radiant-looking skin. Because some citrus oils can cause photosensitivity, avoid applying to exposed skin before spending time outside. It is the main ingredient in my Orange Dreamsicle Sugar Scrub with printable label.
Peace & Calming – This comforting aroma creates a relaxing environment anywhere you need (especially great for children). Combine WITH Citrus Fresh for a bright, invigorating scent that’s also perfect for mornings before school or kid’s practices…anywhere that could use some calm, centeredness.
Valor – Valor is an uplifting, affirming scent to promote courage, confidence, bravery, and balance. Use it to find a positive attitude or to unwind at the end of the day. It is a powerful, yet calming aroma that I use as perfume on many days.
Lavender – Good old lavender is considered the Swiss Army Knife of essential oils. So versatile and gentle, yet potent. When in doubt, reach for relaxing lavender. It is floral, fresh, clean, and calm.
There are so many other ways that essential oils can enhance a dental visit, so I encourage you to have a desk or pocket reference guide on hand and to do your own research. Clove and Thieves can be excellent in and on the mouth, and perhaps consider diluting PanAway on the outside of the jaw after a tough appointment. PanAway is a combination of Wintergreen, Helichrysum, Clove, and Peppermint which is an ideal blend to apply topically after exercise, and it supports the appearance of healthy skin coloration.
Some of these oils are included in a bundle to have eleven popular oils plus a home diffuser, and I always recommend this as the best way to get oiling. Best deal, and when you have everything you need on hand…you’re more likely to start reaching for what you need. Or you can always purchase essential oils as a retail shopper through. This is my referral link to purchase either way, then I can assist your oily journey with any resources and support you may need.
Are you a dentist looking for ways to use aromatherapy for your patients? Please contact me anytime to discuss some ideas for either personal or business use. You may enjoy them to make your own cleaning products around the office, making certain rinses, teeth powders, denture solution, etc. Or even making your own lip balms or hand creams to offer as well, and tons more ideas.
Using essential oils for a dental setting can be very beneficial to you and/or your patients. I encourage you to please do your own homework about the chemical properties of the oils you choose, and to be aware of potential safety and usage information. Please remember that using scented candles, potpourri, and other fresheners and fragrances is NOT the same thing. Aromatherapy is using quality essential oils to enhance physical and psychological well-being. Always, always, ALWAYS educate yourself and use essential oils safely and effectively.
I'm a work-at-home mom, passionate about holistic health and natural living/parenting. I am a Registered Yoga Teacher and Certified Holistic Life Coach. This nutrition nerd blogs randomly at OddsandEvans.com about clean eating, fitness, homemade product recipes, and other mindful wellness topics.
Please Comment/Discuss With Me!