Using virtual reality to reduce dental anxiety in children
The Effects of A Virtual Reality Game on Anxiety During Dental Procedures in Children (VR-TOOTH): A Randomized, Controlled Trial Protocol
NA · St. Justine's Hospital · NCT06182462
This study is testing if using virtual reality games can help reduce anxiety in children during dental visits better than just watching cartoons on a TV.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 88 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | St. Justine's Hospital (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Montreal, Quebec) |
| Trial ID | NCT06182462 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) immersion compared to watching a muted cartoon on a wall-mounted TV in reducing dental anxiety among children undergoing dental procedures. Participants will engage in a VR game using an eye-tracking headset that allows them to remain still during treatment. The study will measure stress levels in both children and their parents through validated stress scales and salivary samples to assess a stress biomarker. Insights will also be gathered regarding the satisfaction of parents and healthcare providers with the use of VR during dental appointments.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 6 to 17 years who are recommended by a dentist to undergo a dental procedure and are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions such as epilepsy, paralysis of the hand, diagnosed eye diseases, or other issues preventing VR use will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce dental anxiety in children, leading to improved dental experiences and better oral health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in using VR for anxiety reduction in various medical settings, indicating potential success for this novel application in dentistry.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Aged 6 to 17 years; 2. Received the dentist's recommendation to participate; 3. Required to undergo any dental procedure; 4. Accompanied by a parent or a legal guardian who can understand, read, and write in either French or English. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Suffer from epilepsy, 2. Paralysis or paresis of the hand 3. Has any diagnosed eye disease/problem, 4. Any other conditions preventing them from using virtual reality (VR) (e.g., epidermolysis bullosa).
Where this trial is running
Montreal, Quebec
- St.Justine's Hospital — Montreal, Quebec, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sylvie Le May, PhD — St. Justine's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sylvie Le May, PhD
- Email: sylvie.lemay@umontreal.ca
- Phone: 5143454931
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.
Conditions: Dental Anxiety, Dental Phobia, Dental Trauma, Dental Diseases