J Korean Acad Pediatr Dent.  2021 Feb;48(1):95-104. 10.5933/JKAPD.2021.48.1.95.

Effect of Virtual Reality Distraction on Pain and Anxiety in Children during Local Anesthesia

• Kim D
• Lee S
• Lee N
• Jih M
• Ahn J

• KMID: 2513913
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5933/JKAPD.2021.48.1.95

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of virtual reality distraction on pain and anxiety in children during local anesthesia. Local anesthesia was administered to 3 groups: a control group without distraction, a group watching TV, and a group using a virtual reality device. The pulse rate and oxygen saturation rate were measured before and at the time of local anesthesia to assess the patients’ pain and anxiety, and the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale was completed after local anesthesia.
The group using the virtual reality device had a significantly lower heart rate change and lower Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale score than those in the control group and the group watching TV (p < 0.05). The greatest difference in heart rate change and Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale score, between the control and virtual reality distraction groups, was seen in 5 - 7-year-olds and a Frankl’s behavior rating scale grade of 3.
The virtual reality device alleviated pain and reduced anxiety in children during local anesthesia.