CONTEMPORARY METHODS FOR REDUCING ANXIETY IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Dental anxiety in children represents a significant clinical challenge, adversely affecting patient cooperation, treatment outcomes, and long-term attitudes toward dental care. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward modern technologies designed to alleviate anxiety and pain during dental procedures. The aim of this review was to present contemporary technologies used to reduce dental anxiety in pediatric patients and to evaluate their effectiveness based on current scientific evidence. A literature search was conducted using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Publications investigating the application of virtual reality (VR), audio and audiovisual distraction techniques, and mobile applications in pediatric dentistry were analyzed. Most studies demonstrated that these technologies effectively reduce anxiety levels, pain perception, and physiological parameters associated with stress. The strongest evidence supports the use of virtual reality and audiovisual distraction techniques, which, through immersive experiences and cognitive distraction, effectively divert children's attention from unpleasant dental stimuli. Mobile applications appear particularly useful in preparing children for dental visits by providing education and familiarization with dental procedures. Despite promising findings, further high-quality clinical studies are required to standardize these interventions and to evaluate their long-term effectiveness and safety.