THE USE OF VIRTUAL REALITY AND AUDIOVISUAL DISTRACTION IN PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Fear and anxiety during pediatric dental care represent significant challenges that can compromise patient cooperation and the execution of clinical procedures. Consequently, non-pharmacological behavioral management approaches, such as virtual reality and audiovisual distraction, emerge as alternatives to mitigate stress in the clinical environment. Objective: To analyze scientific evidence on the effectiveness of virtual reality and audiovisual distraction in reducing anxiety, fear, and pain perception in children undergoing dental care. Methodology: A narrative literature review was conducted using the PubMed, SciELO, and BMC Oral Health databases. The search encompassed articles published between 2019 and 2023 in Portuguese and English. Ten original studies and reviews addressing the direct impact of these technologies on pediatric behavior during dental treatment were selected. Results e discussion: The literature demonstrates that visual and auditory immersion significantly reduces anxiety levels and pain perception. Studies reported reductions in physiological stress markers, such as heart rate and salivary cortisol concentration. The greatest benefits were observed in longer procedures, such as rubber dam isolation and cavity preparations. However, the technology exhibits limitations during moments of acute pain, such as anesthetic injection, and may face resistance from very young or highly phobic children. Conclusion: Virtual reality and audiovisual distraction constitute effective adjuvant tools in behavioral management in pediatric dentistry. Their application should be individualized and combined with traditional communication techniques and a strong practitioner patient relationship.