Quality implications of virtual reality assisted distraction protocols in pediatric dental care: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose: The increasing integration of immersive technologies into healthcare has stimulated interest in their potential to enhance pediatric patient experience, particularly in procedures associated with high levels of anxiety and stress. This study aims to systematically evaluate the application of Virtual Reality (VR) as a distraction modality in pediatric dentistry and to assess the extent to which quality-of-care indicators are incorporated into existing research. Design/methodology/approach: A structured literature review was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Predefined eligibility criteria were applied, and data were extracted using a standardized protocol. The analysis focused on the effectiveness of VR interventions and the presence of quality-of-care dimensions in the reviewed studies Findings: The review identified a limited but growing body of evidence indicating that VR interventions effectively reduce perceived pain and anxiety during pediatric dental procedures. However, the findings reveal a significant gap in the literature, as most studies do not incorporate comprehensive quality-of-care indicators, such as process reliability, patient centeredness, or outcome-based performance measures. Research limitations/implications: The study is limited by the relatively small number of available studies and the heterogeneity of research designs. Future research should incorporate validated quality indicators and adopt more standardized methodologies to enable a more comprehensive evaluation of VR-supported care in pediatric dentistry. Practical implications: The findings suggest that VR can be a valuable supportive tool for improving patient experience in pediatric dentistry. However, its implementation should be accompanied by systematic quality assessment frameworks to ensure its contribution to overall care quality. Social implications: By reducing anxiety and improving the treatment experience for children, VR interventions may enhance patient well-being and increase acceptance of dental care. This has broader implications for public health, including improved oral health outcomes and reduced long-term treatment avoidance.