Virtual Reality Distraction for Dental Anxiety (RCT)

What this study is about

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).

Who can join (things the study team will check)

✅ You may be able to join if…

• Aged 6 to 17 years;
• Received the dentist's recommendation to participate;
• Required to undergo any dental procedure;
• Accompanied by a parent or a legal guardian who can understand, read, and write in either French or English.

🚫 You may not be able to join if…

• Suffer from epilepsy,
• Paralysis or paresis of the hand
• Has any diagnosed eye disease/problem,
• Any other conditions preventing them from using virtual reality (VR) (e.g., epidermolysis bullosa).

Where this trial is running

• St.Justine's Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Who to contact

Sylvie Le May, PhD · 5143454931 · sylvie.lemay@umontreal.ca

It's completely normal to call and ask questions before deciding anything. Mention the study ID: NCT06182462.