Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Dental anxiety is a common phenomenon that affects a significant portion of the population, leading to avoidance of dental care and subsequent negative impacts on oral health. In recent years, the use of virtual reality (VR) technology has emerged as a promising tool for managing anxiety in various medical and therapeutic settings. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of VR technology in managing dental anxiety and improving the overall dental experience for patients. The research methodology employed a mixed-methods approach, including a comprehensive literature review to explore the existing knowledge on dental anxiety, VR technology, and their potential integration. Ten key themes emerged from the literature review, highlighting the benefits and challenges associated with using VR technology in dental settings. These themes informed the design of a quantitative study involving data collection from dental patients who experienced VR technology during dental procedures. The findings of the study revealed a significant reduction in self-reported anxiety levels among patients who used VR technology during dental treatments compared to those who received traditional care. Patients reported feeling more relaxed, distracted, and less anxious during the procedures, indicating a positive impact of VR technology on managing dental anxiety. Additionally, qualitative data from patient interviews provided insights into the subjective experiences and perceptions of using VR technology in dental settings. The discussion of the findings delves into the implications of integrating VR technology into routine dental care practices, emphasizing the potential benefits for both patients and dental practitioners. Considerations regarding the implementation, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness of VR technology in dental settings are addressed, along with recommendations for future research and practice. In conclusion, this study contributes valuable insights into the effectiveness of VR technology in managing dental anxiety and enhancing the overall patient experience. The integration of VR technology shows promise in revolutionizing dental care practices by addressing the psychological barriers associated with dental anxiety. By leveraging the immersive and interactive nature of VR technology, dental practitioners can create a more comfortable and engaging environment for patients, ultimately improving oral health outcomes and promoting positive dental experiences. Keywords Dental anxiety, Virtual reality technology, Patient experience, Anxiety management, Dental care.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Assessment of the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Technology in Dental Anxiety Management" aims to investigate the potential benefits of utilizing virtual reality (VR) technology in the field of dentistry to manage and alleviate anxiety in patients. Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects a significant portion of the population and can lead to avoidance of necessary dental care, resulting in poor oral health outcomes. By exploring the effectiveness of VR technology as a non-pharmacological intervention for anxiety management in dental settings, this research seeks to contribute to the improvement of patient experiences and outcomes in dental care. The research will begin with a comprehensive review of existing literature on dental anxiety, its impact on patients, and current strategies for managing anxiety in dental settings. This review will provide a solid foundation for understanding the significance of the problem and the potential role of VR technology in addressing it. The literature review will also explore previous studies that have examined the use of VR technology in healthcare contexts, highlighting its benefits and limitations. The methodology section of the research will outline the design of the study, including the sample selection criteria, data collection methods, and analysis techniques. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, combining both quantitative measures of anxiety levels and qualitative data on patient experiences with VR technology during dental procedures. This approach will allow for a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of VR technology in reducing dental anxiety and improving patient comfort and satisfaction. The findings of the research will be presented and discussed in detail, highlighting the impact of VR technology on anxiety levels, patient perceptions, and overall dental experience. Potential factors influencing the effectiveness of VR technology in anxiety management will be explored, including patient characteristics, VR content design, and the dental care environment. The discussion will also address practical considerations for integrating VR technology into routine dental practice, such as cost, accessibility, and staff training requirements. In conclusion, this research project aims to provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of incorporating VR technology into dental care settings to improve patient experiences and outcomes. By evaluating the effectiveness of VR technology in managing dental anxiety, this study seeks to contribute to the development of evidence-based practices that enhance the quality of care provided to patients with anxiety-related concerns. The findings of this research have the potential to inform future interventions and strategies aimed at promoting patient well-being and satisfaction in dental settings.