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Virtual reality for patients with dental anxiety: A scoping review
Seppe Bleyen1, Kelly Mooens1, Luka Jancic1
1Department of Oral Health Sciences, Endodontology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Objective:
This scoping review aimed to examine the literature regarding the use of virtual reality (VR) to reduce pain and anxiety before or during dental procedures.
Methods:
A review of studies published between 2000 and 2024 was conducted, using PubMed and Embase databases. Eligible studies involved healthy patients (ASA I and II) with dental anxiety undergoing dental procedures using VR.
Results:
A total of 46 studies were included, covering pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, periodontics and endodontics. 31 studies found that VR glasses significantly reduced pain and anxiety during dental treatment. VR was useful for managing children's behavior during dental procedures. Some studies reported improvements in blood pressure and heart rate. While most studies found a significant reduction in anxiety and pain, a few showed non-significant changes. VR was generally well-received by patients, with mild adverse effects such as nausea or claustrophobia.
Conclusion:
VR appears to be an effective tool for managing dental anxiety in various dental fields, but research is still limited, particularly in adults. Most studies involved children, showing positive results in reducing anxiety, pain, time perception, blood pressure, pulse rate, and salivary cortisol levels. However, further research is needed to fully evaluate the role of VR in endodontic treatments and the effectiveness of VR treatment in adult patients.
