Discussion
heaviness, anxiety, pain
Many patients are frightened of or anxious about dental treatmentIn a previous study, we demonstrated that the use of VR decreased anxiety and fear of surgical treatment under local anesthesia both subjectively and objectivelyVR is currently in use in several medical fieldsOne point that warrants attention in the experience of VR is cybersicknessA head-mounted display is required to experience VR, but the thickness and heaviness of these displays is an impediment for both operator and patient. It is hoped that smaller, lighter devices will be developed in the future.In a previous study, we showed that most patients who used VR during a surgical procedure expressed the wish to use VR during other such procedures in the futureOur results showed that the use of VR during impacted mandibular third molar extraction under local anesthesia effectively alleviated fear and anxiety during treatment without side effects. They also suggested that pain relief may vary depending on the content of the presentation. VR has potential as a medical assistive device for use during outpatient surgery under local anesthesia.