Comparison of effectiveness of audio and VR distraction techniques in managing pediatric dental patients

Abstract

Aim: In order to manage pediatric dental patients, this study set out to assess the effectiveness of two distraction techniques: audio and virtual reality (VR) with tell, show, and do technique (TSD). Materials and Methods: Forty-five children aged 6–10 years were selected for the present randomized control trial. They were split into three groups at random. Group 1 control group: tell-show-do, Group 2: audio distraction, and Group 3: VR distraction. Both pretreatment and postoperative anxiety levels were measured by modified Venham's anxiety rating scale (MVARS). Results: In each of the three groups, there was a statistically significant difference between the child's pre- and post-treatment anxiety levels. VR distraction group experienced the greatest reduction in anxiety. Conclusion: All three methods were similarly successful at lowering anxiety while virtual reality distraction outperformed compared to other techniques.

Keywords

• anxiety
• behavior management
• distraction