Is a Holistic Dentist Right For You?

Have you ever woken up on the wrong side of the bed? But you jumped into the shower, and your fresh rosemary mint shampoo instantly refreshed you? There must be something to that aromatherapy after all.

The National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy states on its Web site: “Aromatherapy can be defined as the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize, and promote the health of body, mind, and spirit.” It defines essential oils as “highly concentrated aromatic extracts that are distilled from a variety of aromatic plant material including grasses, leaves, flowers, needles and twigs, peel of fruit, wood, and roots.”

Different scents have the power to refresh, relax and revive us. This is why spas are known worldwide to help elevate pain, stress and tension. What is their top secret- aromatherapy. But what if we can’t make it to a spa everyday. How are we supposed to cope with the daily stresses, and life chores?

As our to do lists grow, our anxiety tends to get bigger as well. Not to mention the mandatory must do’s, like visit the dentist for a routine cleaning. Ugh. Well no need to worry, now going to the dentist can be as uplifting as your morning shower.

Today, many dental offices are using aromatherapy in their practice. Doctor Roane, a dentist West Linn Oregon, says it is a great thing for the dental industry because aromatherapy is known to reduce anxiety, stress, worry, fear, panic attacks and induce relaxation.

Which is a perfect solution to the growing epidemic of dental anxiety. Between 9% and 15% of Americans state they avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear. Dental phobia is a more serious condition that leaves people panic-stricken and terrified.

There are many reasons why some people have dental phobia and anxiety. Such as fear of pain, side effects, or past traumas. Dentists work hard to make the patient experience enjoyable, and implementing aromatherapy into their office is a great way to ease the anxiety.

There are many dentists across the nation, who are starting to use more holistic procedures and practices. Such methods include hypnosis. The goal of the dentist who does hypnosis is to allow the patient to use the power of their own minds to eliminate fear and relax their muscles. There are no harmful side effects of this method. And it is growing in popularity.

Aromatherapy is one of the most popular holistic implementation in dental offices. It utilizes the pure oil essences of plants which can act as stimulants or have a calming effect.

These essential oils can be adjusted to the patient’s needs which is why they are such a good solution. Additionally, there are problems with dental health that starts with dietary excesses or deficiencies. Very often a poor diet can increase the feelings of stress, depression, fear and emotional imbalance a patient may feel in general let alone when they go to the dentist.

Another holistic treatment that is both powerful and effective is dental acupuncture. It’s based on the same principles as traditional acupuncture. The philosophy states that our life force energy flows through all areas of our body, which is part of a higher, overarching and intelligent system of health and existence.

A number of holistic therapies are now a regular practice for some dentists. Visit Roane Family Dental, a family dental office for more details.

– Written by Shannon Kaiser