Our Summary

The research paper examines how virtual reality (VR) can help reduce anxiety and pain for patients undergoing oral surgery. It reviews studies on this topic and finds that VR can be an effective tool for reducing patients’ pre- and post-operative anxiety and pain. This is based on the analysis of 6 studies, out of which 4 were control trials and 2 were descriptions of methods. Two clinical trials in particular showed significant reductions in anxiety and pain. However, the paper concludes that more research is needed to confirm these results.

FAQs

  1. How can virtual reality aid in reducing anxiety and pain during oral surgery?
  2. What were the findings from the clinical trials regarding the use of VR in oral surgery?
  3. Is there a need for more research to confirm the effectiveness of VR in reducing anxiety and pain during oral surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about oral surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting before the procedure as directed by the surgeon. This can help reduce the risk of complications during and after surgery. It’s also important to follow post-operative care instructions, such as taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain foods, and keeping the surgical site clean to promote healing. Always communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for oral surgery include those with impacted wisdom teeth, severe tooth decay, gum disease, jaw misalignment, facial trauma, or other oral health issues that cannot be treated with routine dental procedures. Additionally, patients who require dental implants, bone grafting, or corrective jaw surgery may also be candidates for oral surgery. Patients with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders may also be recommended for oral surgery to address oral health issues related to their underlying medical conditions.

Timeline

Before oral surgery:

  • Patient consults with oral surgeon to discuss treatment options and prepare for surgery
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations, such as medical history review and imaging tests
  • Patient may be prescribed medication to manage pain or anxiety before surgery
  • Patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, such as fasting or avoiding certain medications

After oral surgery:

  • Patient wakes up from anesthesia and may experience grogginess or dizziness
  • Patient may be prescribed pain medication to manage discomfort post-surgery
  • Patient is given instructions on how to care for the surgical site and manage pain at home
  • Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor healing and remove stitches
  • Patient may experience swelling, bruising, and difficulty eating or speaking in the days following surgery
  • Gradual improvement in pain and swelling as the surgical site heals
  • Patient may undergo post-operative evaluations to ensure proper healing and address any complications

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications of the oral surgery procedure I will be undergoing?
  2. What are the alternatives to oral surgery and why is surgery the best option for my condition?
  3. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  4. How long is the recovery period expected to be and what can I do to promote healing?
  5. Are there any specific instructions or restrictions I should follow before and after the surgery?
  6. How many oral surgery procedures of this type have you performed in the past and what is your success rate?
  7. Will I need any follow-up appointments or care after the surgery?
  8. How can I manage any pain or discomfort after the surgery?
  9. Are there any potential long-term effects or complications I should be aware of?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about how virtual reality can help reduce anxiety and pain during oral surgery?

Reference

Authors: Falguière A, LeGruiec C, Herry H, Genest-Beucher S, Dessus JM, Boisramé S. Journal: J Stomatol Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2021 Sep;122(4):405-410. doi: 10.1016/j.jormas.2021.02.004. Epub 2021 Feb 18. PMID: 33610770