Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis aims to investigate the impact of virtual reality (VR) technology on dental anxiety and fear in pediatric patients. Dental anxiety and fear are common issues among children visiting the dentist, often leading to negative dental experiences and avoidance of necessary dental treatments. Virtual reality technology has emerged as a potential tool to help reduce anxiety and fear in various medical settings, including dentistry. However, its specific impact on pediatric dental patients remains underexplored. The study will begin with a comprehensive review of the literature on dental anxiety and fear in pediatric patients, as well as the theoretical foundations of virtual reality technology as an intervention for anxiety and fear. The research methodology will involve a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative surveys to assess anxiety levels before and after VR intervention, qualitative interviews to explore the experiences and perceptions of pediatric patients using VR in the dental setting, and observations of patient behavior during dental procedures. The findings from this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of virtual reality technology in reducing dental anxiety and fear in pediatric patients. The results will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on innovative interventions for managing anxiety in healthcare settings and may have implications for improving the overall dental experience for children. Recommendations for the implementation of VR technology in pediatric dental practices will be discussed, along with suggestions for future research in this area. Overall, this thesis seeks to address an important gap in the literature by examining the potential benefits of virtual reality technology in alleviating dental anxiety and fear in pediatric patients. By enhancing our understanding of the impact of VR interventions on pediatric dental care, this study has the potential to improve the overall well-being and oral health outcomes of children receiving dental treatment.

Thesis Overview

The project "Investigating the impact of virtual reality technology on dental anxiety and fear in pediatric patients" aims to explore the potential benefits of utilizing virtual reality (VR) technology as a therapeutic intervention to alleviate dental anxiety and fear in young patients. Dental anxiety and fear are common among children and can have significant negative effects on their oral health, as well as their overall well-being. Traditional methods to manage dental anxiety, such as sedation or distraction techniques, may not always be effective or suitable for all pediatric patients. Virtual reality technology offers a promising alternative approach to help children manage their anxiety and fear during dental procedures. By immersing patients in a virtual environment that is engaging and interactive, VR has the potential to distract children from the dental setting and reduce their feelings of anxiety and fear. The project aims to investigate the extent to which VR technology can effectively reduce dental anxiety and fear in pediatric patients, ultimately improving their overall dental experience and treatment outcomes. The research will involve conducting a comprehensive literature review to explore the existing evidence on the use of VR technology in healthcare settings, particularly in the context of pediatric dentistry and anxiety management. The methodology will include designing a study protocol to assess the impact of VR interventions on dental anxiety and fear levels in a sample of pediatric patients undergoing dental procedures. Data collection will involve measuring pre- and post-intervention anxiety levels, as well as obtaining feedback from both patients and dental providers on their experiences with VR technology. The findings of this research project have the potential to contribute valuable insights to the field of pediatric dentistry and anxiety management. By providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of VR technology in reducing dental anxiety and fear in young patients, this study may inform the development of innovative and patient-centered approaches to improving pediatric dental care. Ultimately, the goal of this research is to enhance the overall dental experience for pediatric patients, promoting positive attitudes towards oral health and reducing barriers to accessing essential dental services.