Using virtual reality to reduce anxiety during orthodontic procedures
Effects of Virtual Reality Relaxation on the Anxiety Levels of Adolescents and Adults During Orthodontic Bonding: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if using virtual reality can help reduce anxiety in teenagers and adults during orthodontic bonding procedures compared to standard care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 62 (estimated) |
| Ages | 13 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Indiana University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Indianapolis, Indiana) |
| Trial ID | NCT06804967 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality relaxation (VRR) in reducing anxiety levels in adolescents and adults undergoing orthodontic bonding procedures. Participants will be randomly assigned to either experience VRR during their procedure or receive standard care without VRR. Anxiety levels will be measured through physiological indicators such as heart rate and blood pressure, as well as psychological assessments using validated questionnaires before and after the intervention. The study seeks to provide insights into how immersive technology can enhance patient comfort in dental settings.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents and adults scheduled for fixed orthodontic treatment who can comprehend written and spoken English.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of severe anxiety disorders, certain medical conditions, or those who cannot tolerate virtual reality may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce anxiety for patients undergoing orthodontic procedures, leading to a more positive treatment experience.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using virtual reality for anxiety reduction in various medical settings, indicating potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Scheduled for fixed orthodontic treatment at IUSD Graduate Orthodontic Clinic * Comprehensive treatment case * Maxillary or mandibular arch bonding * Patients \> 13 years of age * Must be able to read written English and comprehend spoken English Exclusion Criteria: * Re-treatment cases * Diagnosed and/or reported clinical general anxiety disorder * Currently taking pharmacologic anxiolytics * Light hypersensitivity * Self-reported history of seizures, concussions * History of moderate to severe clinically diagnosed mental illness * Self-reported history of hypertension or severe heart disease * Self-reported history of a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator * Visual and/or auditory impairment * Patients with craniofacial anomalies * History of significant motion sickness or vertigo
Where this trial is running
Indianapolis, Indiana
- Indiana University School of Dentistry Department of Orthodontics and Oral Facial Genetics Grad Clinic — Indianapolis, Indiana, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hakan Turkkahraman, DDS, PhD — Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Hakan Turkkahraman, DDS, PhD
- Email: haturk@iu.edu
- Phone: 3172789934
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.