Virtual Reality For Preoperative Anxiety In Tooth Extraction

To evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) intervention in managing preoperative anxiety in patients undergoing complex tooth extraction. In this randomized trial (March–November 2024), 142 patients were assigned to control (n = 71, standard care) or VR intervention (n = 71; 5-minute immersive experience with procedure simulation, relaxation training, and postoperative guidance). Anxiety levels and pain perception were assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Physiological parameters, including heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and oxygen saturation (SpO₂), were recorded. Patient satisfaction was evaluated through a structured questionnaire. After intervention, the STAI scores in the VR group significantly decreased from 56.3 ± 6.8 to 42.1 ± 5.9, compared to 56.5 ± 7.1 to 48.7 ± 6.3 in the control group (t = 7.84, p < 0.001). The NRS pain score was significantly lower in the VR group (2.1 ± 1.3) than in the control group (3.5 ± 1.6) ( p < 0.001). HR and systolic BP reductions were significantly greater in the VR group (P < 0.001), while SpO₂ showed no significant difference (p > 0.05). Patient satisfaction in the VR group was 92.0%, higher than 76.0% in the control group (χ² = 10.52, p = 0.001). VR significantly reduces preoperative anxiety and pain, improving patient experience in complex tooth extraction.