Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis presents a comprehensive investigation into the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in managing dental anxiety among patients through a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) study design. Dental anxiety is a common issue that can significantly impact the quality of dental care and patient satisfaction. The use of VR technology as a potential intervention to alleviate anxiety in dental settings has gained attention in recent years. However, there is a need for rigorous scientific evaluation to determine its efficacy and practical application. The research begins with a detailed exploration in Chapter 1, covering the Introduction, Background of the study, Problem Statement, Objectives of the study, Limitations of the study, Scope of the study, Significance of the study, Structure of the Thesis, and Definition of Terms. The literature review in Chapter 2 critically examines existing studies on VR technology in dental anxiety management, highlighting key findings, methodologies, and gaps in the current research. Chapter 3 outlines the Research Methodology, including the research design, participant selection criteria, data collection methods, ethical considerations, and data analysis procedures. By employing a Randomized Controlled Trial, the study aims to provide robust evidence on the efficacy of VR technology in reducing dental anxiety levels in comparison to traditional interventions. In Chapter 4, the Discussion of Findings delves into the results obtained from the RCT study, analyzing the impact of VR technology on various aspects of dental anxiety management. Factors such as anxiety levels, pain perception, satisfaction with the dental experience, and overall treatment outcomes are carefully examined to determine the effectiveness of VR interventions. Finally, Chapter 5 presents the Conclusion and Summary of the project thesis, synthesizing the key findings, implications for clinical practice, limitations of the study, and recommendations for future research. The thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on innovative approaches to enhancing patient experiences in dental care settings, emphasizing the potential of VR technology as a valuable tool in managing dental anxiety effectively. Overall, this thesis offers valuable insights into the application of VR technology in dental anxiety management and provides a foundation for further research and implementation in clinical practice. The findings have the potential to inform healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers on the benefits of integrating VR technology into routine dental care to improve patient outcomes and overall satisfaction.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Assessment of the Efficacy of Virtual Reality Technology in Dental Anxiety Management: A Randomized Controlled Trial" aims to investigate the effectiveness of utilizing virtual reality (VR) technology as a method for managing dental anxiety. Dental anxiety is a common issue among individuals, leading to avoidance of dental visits and negative impacts on oral health. The use of VR technology in healthcare settings has shown promising results in reducing anxiety and pain perception in various medical procedures. This study seeks to explore the potential benefits of VR technology specifically in the context of dental anxiety management. The research will be conducted using a randomized controlled trial design, which is a robust method for evaluating the efficacy of interventions. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group, receiving VR intervention during dental procedures, or the control group, receiving standard care without VR. The study will assess various outcomes, including anxiety levels before, during, and after the dental procedure, pain perception, satisfaction with the care received, and willingness to return for future dental visits. The project will also delve into the mechanisms through which VR technology may influence anxiety management in the dental setting. This includes exploring factors such as distraction, relaxation, immersion, and sense of control that VR technology can provide to individuals undergoing dental treatment. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for tailoring interventions to optimize the benefits of VR technology for anxiety management. Moreover, the study will address the limitations and challenges associated with implementing VR technology in dental practices, such as cost, accessibility, patient preferences, and technical issues. By identifying these barriers, recommendations can be made to facilitate the integration of VR technology into routine dental care for anxiety management. Overall, this research aims to contribute valuable insights into the efficacy of VR technology in alleviating dental anxiety, thereby improving patient experiences, enhancing treatment outcomes, and promoting better oral health. The findings of this study have the potential to inform clinical practice guidelines and stimulate further research in the field of technology-assisted anxiety management in dentistry.