VR or softer settings: which calms anxious kids at the dentist?

NCT ID NCT07261670

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested two ways to reduce dental anxiety in 98 children aged 10-13 with borderline intellectual functioning. One group used a virtual reality headset during dental treatment, while the other experienced a sensory-adapted environment with dim lights and quiet tools. The goal was to see which helped more children complete a filling within 30 minutes.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Virtual reality headset and sensory-adapted dental environment

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward simple, non-drug ways to help children with borderline intellectual functioning feel calmer during dental visits.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed study with 98 participants. Results may not apply to other age groups or settings, and neither approach may work for everyone.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • IRCCS Ass. Oasi Maria SS

    Troina, EN, 94018, Italy