VR headsets could replace needles for Kids' dental fear

NCT ID NCT07636330

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 02, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether wearing a virtual reality headset during dental treatment can reduce pain and anxiety in children aged 6 to 12. Eighty children will be randomly assigned to either use VR or receive standard care. Researchers will measure pain, stress, and how willing kids are to come back for future visits.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Immersive Virtual Reality Headset
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to help children feel less pain and anxiety during dental visits.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage trial with only 80 children, so results may not apply to everyone. VR may not work for all kids and could cause motion sickness in some.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Pain Pain, Procedural

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UBC Graduate Pediatric Dental Clinic

    Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.