Aromatherapy vs Music Therapy for Anxiety in Children During Dental Radiography

Comparative Evaluation of the Effects of Aromatherapy and Music Therapy on Anxiety in Children Undergoing Oral Radiological Examination for the First Time

This study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of aromatherapy and music therapy on anxiety levels in children undergoing intraoral radiographic examination for the first time. Dental anxiety is a common problem in pediatric patients and can negatively impact cooperation and treatment outcomes.

Children included in the study will be randomly assigned to four groups: aromatherapy and music group, aromatherapy group, music therapy group, or control group. In the aromatherapy group, children will be exposed to a selected essential oil (lavender oil) before the radiographic procedure, while in the music therapy group, children will listen to calming music through a speaker. The group receiving both aromatherapy and music therapy will listen to music while being exposed to the essential oil. The control group will receive standard care without any additional intervention.

Anxiety levels will be assessed before and after the radiographic procedure using the Facial Imaging Scale (FIS). Simultaneously, pulse rate will be measured before and after the procedure using a finger pulse oximeter. The primary aim is to determine whether aromatherapy, music therapy, or a combination of both is more effective in reducing anxiety compared to the control group.

The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the development of simple, non-invasive, and cost-effective methods to improve the comfort and cooperation of pediatric patients during dental radiographic procedures.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Children requiring panoramic radiography for dental examination
2. No previous history of dental radiographic procedures
3. Ability to understand and cooperate with the procedure
4. Provision of written informed consent by parents or legal guardians

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Presence of hearing or olfactory impairment
2. Use of medications that may affect anxiety levels or heart rate
3. Presence of systemic or neurological disorders
4. Inability to cooperate with the study procedures
5. Refusal of the child or parent/guardian to participate