Reduction of Dental Anxiety in Children Using Virtual Reality: A Randomised Controlled Trial
European journal of paediatric dentistry, vol.26, no.3, pp.185-191, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 26 Issue: 3
- Publication Date: 2025
- Doi Number: 10.23804/ejpd.2024.2109
- Journal Name: European journal of paediatric dentistry
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE
- Page Numbers: pp.185-191
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
AIM: The aim of this research is examining the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) in the reduction of dental anxiety in children with novel methods. METHODS: The three arm parallel-group randomised clinical study was conducted in children aged 6-10 years. Pulpotomy procedure was performed on randomised 90 selected children (n=30 in each group; AG: group applied active distraction using VR glasses, PG: group applied passive distraction, i.e., watching cartoons on a screen mounted onto a dental unit, CG: control group). Before and after the procedure, children were administered Facial Pain Scale (FIS), Children's Fear Rating Scale (CFSS-DS) and Frankl Behaviour Rating Scale (FBRS). The pulse rate was measured to check the anxiety levels of all treated children at five different time points. Statistical significance was determined as p<0.05. CONCLUSION: VR has been found to positively contribute to the performance of children in adapting to dental treatment. The VR application aims to create positive attitude in children by providing them a safe atmosphere and becoming a useful tool in the dental profession.