Virtual Reality Distraction for Dental Anxiety (RCT)

The aim of this randomized clinical trial is to verify the efficacy of VR immersion over a muted cartoon on a wall-mounted TV to decrease dental fear and anxiety of children undergoing dental procedures. The study also aims to gain insight on the satisfaction of parents and healthcare providers on the use of VR during dental appointments. Main research question: Does VR immersion compare to a cartoon on a wall-mounted TV is more efficacious to decrease dental fear and anxiety of children requiring dental procedures? Participants will be playing through a VR immersive game wearing a eye-tracking VR headset that requires no movement of the head to play, facilitating the dental procedure. The investigators will take measures of the stress levels of participants and their parents using a validated stress scale and also by taking salivary samples to verify the levels of a stress biomarker (alpha-amylase).

NCT Number	NCT06182462
Lead Sponsor	St. Justine's Hospital
Conditions	Dental Anxiety, Dental Phobia, Dental Trauma, Dental Diseases
Enrollment	88 participants
Start Date	2023-11-01
Primary Completion	2025-11 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-03 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2025-08-24