Effectiveness of virtual reality as a behavioural management method in children during dental visits: a systematic review

Importance: Behaviour management techniques converge on the fundamental aim of facilitating the child´s adaptation by promoting familiarity and gradual desensitisation, thereby reducing stress levels and enhancing cooperation during dental procedures. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the use of virtual reality (VR) as a behavioural management technique to reduce anxiety in paediatric patients during dental treatments. Methods: A research strategy was conducted including articles that have been published in the past 5 years using MeSH Terms in five different databases (PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, EMBASE, and Web of Science). The studies included in the review involved children under 17 years old who used virtual reality to control their anxiety in the dental clinic. Results: The use of VR in paediatric dentistry improved behaviour in children with higher positive responses in VR groups, vs. control groups. The Frankl scale showed significant improvements after the use of VR before treatment. Furthermore, audiovisual distraction with VR was the most effective technique for reducing fear and anxiety in uncooperative children. Interpretation: Virtual reality is an effective technique for managing behaviour and reducing anxiety in paediatric patients during dental treatments, often outperforming conventional techniques. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251015748, PORSPERO CRD420251015748.