Virtual Reality vs Nitrous Oxide for Pediatric Dentistry
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
Is nitrous oxide safe for use in pediatric dentistry?
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is generally considered safe when used as an anesthetic in medical settings like dentistry. However, excessive or recreational use can lead to side effects such as dizziness, memory issues, and vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause nerve damage if not addressed.12345
How does the treatment of Virtual Reality vs Nitrous Oxide for Pediatric Dentistry differ from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it compares the use of virtual reality headsets, which provide a distraction therapy, with nitrous oxide (laughing gas), a common sedative, to manage anxiety and pain in children during dental procedures. Unlike traditional methods that rely solely on medication, this approach explores the potential of immersive technology to reduce discomfort and anxiety.678910
What is the purpose of this trial?
Two groups of pediatric patients between the ages of 4 to 12 years old will be examined in this study. Control group will receive the standard of care dental treatment with under nitrous sedation (N2O) and will have a second visit where Virtual Reality(VR) goggles will be used instead of N2O. The treatment group will receive the standard of care dental treatment with VR googles first and will have a second visit where N2O will be used instead of VR. Procedures performed in all groups will be restorative treatments, which can include intraoral anesthetic injections, placing dental fillings, crowns, and the extractions of teeth. In group 1, A specific VR headset, the "Oculus Quest 2" will be used. Through the headset, a video will be played for the child during a dental procedure.
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for kids aged 4-12 who need dental work like fillings or tooth removal and can handle anesthesia. They must be in good health overall (ASA class 1 or 2). Kids with serious health issues, a high risk of seizures from lights and sounds, or those too sick for VR (ASA class 3 or 4) can't join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive dental treatment with either Nitrous Oxide or Virtual Reality goggles, followed by a second visit with the alternate method
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for pain and discomfort using FLACC and Houpt scales
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Nitrous Oxide
- Virtual Reality Headset
Nitrous Oxide is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada for the following indications:
- Anesthesia
- Pain relief
- Hypoxic respiratory failure in neonates
- Anesthesia
- Pain relief
- Hypoxic respiratory failure in neonates
- Anesthesia
- Pain relief
- Hypoxic respiratory failure in neonates
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Geisinger Clinic
Lead Sponsor