Botanicals, or plant-based substances, have been used in dentistry for various purposes due to their potential therapeutic properties. Here are a few ways in which botanicals can be used in dentistry:
- Natural Antimicrobial Agents: Some botanicals possess antimicrobial properties, which can help in preventing or treating oral infections. For example, tea tree oil, clove oil, camellia oil, peppermint oil, lavender oil, and neem oil have been found to have antibacterial properties and can be used in mouthwashes or toothpaste to help reduce bacteria in the mouth.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Certain botanicals, such as aloe vera and chamomile, camellia oil, peppermint oil, and lavender oil have anti-inflammatory properties. These can be beneficial in reducing inflammation and soothing oral tissues, especially in conditions like gingivitis or oral ulcers.
- Analgesic Properties: Botanicals like clove oil have been traditionally used as a natural remedy for toothaches. Clove oil contains eugenol, which has analgesic properties and can provide temporary relief from tooth pain. I use clove oil during treatment. It reduces sensitivity and allows me to instrument clinically without pain. Novacaine is a Vaso constrictor (Not allowing new Healthy cells) to the area. Clove is also an Antimicrobial.
- Wound being : Some botanicals, such as calendula and aloe vera, camellia seed, oil, peppermint, oil, and lavender oil have wound-healing properties. They can be used topically to promote healing of oral wounds, such as after tooth extractions or oral surgeries.
- Breath Fresheners: Certain botanicals help reduce bad breath. Peppermint, parsley, lavender have natural breath-freshening properties, they can be used in oral care.