Using virtual reality to reduce dental anxiety in children

Comparative Evaluation of The Effect of Virtual Reality and Screen Programs on Children's Dental Anxiety, Pain and Behavior: A Randomized Cross-Over Clinical Trial

NA · Cairo University · NCT05157438

This study is testing if using virtual reality can help reduce anxiety and pain in children aged 5-7 during dental visits compared to regular screen programs.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment42 (estimated)
Ages5 Years to 7 Years
SexAll
SponsorCairo University (other)
Locations1 site (Cairo)
Trial IDNCT05157438 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) versus traditional screen programs in reducing dental anxiety, pain, and improving behavior in children aged 5-7 during dental procedures. It employs a cross-over, split mouth design where each child will experience both interventions during their dental treatment. The study will assess the children's responses at different time points, focusing on their pain levels and overall dental experience. By utilizing VR as a distraction technique, the study seeks to enhance the child's cooperation and comfort during dental visits.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy children aged 5-7 who are undergoing their first dental visit and require extraction of decayed primary molars.

Not a fit: Children with systemic or mental health conditions, those requiring general anesthesia, or who are extremely uncooperative may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve children's dental experiences and reduce anxiety and pain during treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using virtual reality for pain and anxiety management in pediatric settings, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children between 5-7 years old age.
* Both genders.
* First dental visit
* Positive and definitely positive behavior according to Frankel behavior scale.
* Two or more badly decayed primary maxillary first molars beyond repair and need to be extracted.
* Systemically and mentally healthy.

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of systemic or mental conditions.
* Special health care needs who require pharmacological management prior to dental treatment.
* Acute dental pain or trauma.
* Extremely uncooperative children who require being treated under general anesthesia, negative and definitely negative according to Frankel behavior scale

Where this trial is running

Cairo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Dental Anxiety, virtual reality

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.