Virtual Reality’s Limited Impact on Anxiety in Young Dental Patients

SAUDI ARABIA: A recent cohort study delves into the potential of virtual reality (VR) as a tool to manage pain and anxiety levels in four-to-six-year-old children undergoing dental treatment. 

Recognizing the importance of oral health in children’s overall well-being and the prevalence of dental anxiety leading to the avoidance of necessary care, the study aims to assess the efficacy of VR distraction during dental procedures.

Study Design and Objectives

Conducted as a single-blind, crossover clinical trial at the Dental Complex of King Faisal University in Al Ahsa, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the study involved 20 children aged four to six years. 

VR technology found effective in reducing dental anxiety in paediatric patients

Ethical approval was obtained, and participants were divided into a control group and an experimental group. Dental procedures were performed both with and without VR, utilizing a split-mouth design to compare anxiety levels.

The study employed ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test to analyze the impact of VR glasses on vital metrics during dental procedures. Surprisingly, the results indicated no significant differences in anxiety levels before and after using VR glasses. This suggests a limited effectiveness of VR technology in reducing anxiety among young dental patients.

Contrary to Expectations

Contrary to initial expectations, the study challenges the assumption that VR devices are highly effective in diverting children’s attention and minimizing anxiety and pain during dental procedures. The findings prompt a reevaluation of the potential benefits of VR in this medical setting, emphasizing the need for further investigations.

VR prototype designed to relieve patient anxiety

In light of the study’s outcomes, the authors recommend additional research to identify potential confounding factors that may influence the utility of VR in medical settings. Despite the current limitations, ongoing exploration of innovative approaches to managing pediatric dental anxiety remains crucial for improving the overall dental experience for young patients.

As the discussion surrounding the role of technology in dentistry continues, this study contributes valuable insights into the nuanced effectiveness of virtual reality, prompting the dental community to consider alternative strategies to alleviate anxiety in young patients during dental treatments.