Objective: The aim of this study was to compare virtual reality (VR) and nitrous oxide for dental anxiety and pain during a dental procedure in children.
Materials and Methods: This study examined two groups. Group 1 received dental treatment using nitrous oxide. Group 2 received dental treatment while watching a video through a virtual reality headset. Both groups received restorative treatment, including intraoral anesthetic injections, to perform dental restorations, crowns, and/or the extraction of teeth. The participants were asked to rate their pain with the Wong-Baker Faces scale before and after the procedure. After administering local anesthesia, the provider gave the participant a FLACC score. The investigator completed the Houpt Crying and Movement Scale after the procedure. Virtual Reality (VR) may serve as an effective behavior management tool for pediatric dentists by providing distraction and alleviating discomfort during dental procedures. This approach could be a way to enhance the clinical experience for young patients. Additionally, VR may be a valuable alternative when nitrous oxide is contraindicated or unavailable.
Results: Houpt, FLACC, and FACES scores did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference between virtual reality distraction and nitrous oxide in patient reaction to anesthesia, procedure, and post-operative discomfort. The number of participants who claimed they “had fun” during their procedure was statistically higher with VR, demonstrating a p-value of <0.0001.
Conclusion: Virtual reality may be a viable non-pharmacologic behavior management alternative to nitrous oxide.