The future of the virtual reality distraction for pediatric dental care with artificial intelligence technology: a systematic review

Abstract: Background and Objective: Virtual reality (VR) distraction with artificial intelligence(AI) technology has shown promising results in reducing pain and anxiety in pediatric dental patients. However, there is limited research on the future potential of this technology for improving clinical outcomes and addressing challenges in pediatric dental care. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the future potential of VR distraction with AI technology in pediatric dental care by identifying trends, challenges, and opportunities in this area. Material and Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in various electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, using relevant keywords. The keywords for the search were as follows: " virtual reality ", " distraction ", " pediatric ", " dental care ", and " artificial intelligence ".we assessed the articles by their full test and selected the studies related to the aim of this review. In addition, the original articles such as randomized clinical trials and observational studies included and did not set any restrictions on language and study time in the review. Results: A total of 20 studies were included in this review, with a focus on the following themes: (1) Advances in VR and AI technology for pediatric dental care; (2) Challenges and barriers to VR and AI implementation in dental practices; (3) Opportunities for expanding VR and AI applications beyond dental procedures, such as pre-appointment preparation and post-treatment follow-up. Conclusion: VR distraction with AI technology represents a promising future direction for pediatric dental care, with the potential to improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall dental experience. However, challenges related to cost, accessibility, and optimal customization of VR experiences must be addressed. Continued research and innovation are needed to realize the full potential of this technology in pediatric dental care.