Applications of essential oils in dentistry: a literature review

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the available evidence in the literature regarding the topical use of essential oils as potential agents for dental clinic activities. Methods: BVS and PubMed databases were utilized. Key articles addressing the application of essential oils in dentistry were selected, using scientific and common names associated with "dentistry" as keywords in Portuguese and English, published between 2018 and 2022. Results: A table was compiled containing the main essential oils commonly used—54 oils in total. Thirty-four oils were excluded as they had no connection to dentistry, leaving 20 oils associated with clinical practice. The analysis of these oils revealed their primary properties, showing efficacy in various areas such as periodontics, endodontics, pediatric dentistry, healing of oral cavity lesions, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anesthetic effects. Conclusion: Thus, it can be observed that there is an application of essential oils in dentistry, and they offer various benefits when used correctly and appropriately, manifesting effects that address the patient universally. In this regard, further studies in this area are necessary as it presented a considerable number of positive results in the use of essential oils in dental practice to fully take advantage of the benefits offered by these oils.

Keywords: Popular name of the oil +“dentist”. Popular name of the oil +“dentist”. Scientific name of the oil + “dentistry”. Scientific name of the oil + “dentistry”.