From fear to comfort: Transforming public dentistry with virtual reality

Adults with disabilities often experience heightened anxiety and barriers in accessing dental care. This study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of SmileyScope™, a TGA-approved virtual reality headset, to reduce anxiety and improve patient experiences in public dental settings. By integrating lived experience and inclusive design, the research aims to generate foundational evidence for scalable VR-enabled oral healthcare, addressing gaps in adult disability-inclusive dentistry and informing future service innovation. This mixed-methods feasibility study involves 50 adult clients and up to 10 dental staff across Peninsula Health sites. Participants trial SmileyScope™ VR during routine dental care. Anxiety is measured pre/post using a Visual Analogue Scale; usability via the System Usability Scale (SUS); and staff acceptance through the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Qualitative feedback is thematically analysed using Braun and Clarke’s framework. Recruitment, intervention, and evaluation are co-designed with a disability advocate to ensure
inclusive participation. Data collection includes surveys, interviews, and performance indicators, with secure data management protocols in place. This study will generate foundational evidence on the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of integrating SmileyScope™ VR technology into adult public dental care at the Peninsula Health Community Dental Service. Preliminary data is expected by November 2025, with insights from clients and clinicians informing dental workflows. Key outcomes include an implementation toolkit addressing obstacles, like staff training and
accessibility, alongside recommendations for sustainable VR integration backed by cost-benefit analyses. The research specifically targets adults with disabilities to reduce anxiety and enhance engagement through immersive VR experiences. While previous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of VR in pediatric care, evidence regarding its use in adults remains limited, making this study particularly important. Anticipated benefits include reduced anxiety and improved patient cooperation; however, we must also address potential risks, such as discomfort for some clients and technical issues. Given the study’s limited duration and sample size, it will focus primarily on routine check-ups, which may limit the applicability of the findings to broader contexts. Future research should investigate the long-term impacts of VR on oral health outcomes and clinician performance, as well as explore its scalability across diverse populations and healthcare settings. This feasibility study demonstrates that SmileyScope™ VR is a promising tool for reducing dental anxiety and
enhancing care experiences for adults with disabilities in public dental settings. The intervention is expected to be well accepted by both clients and clinicians, with strong usability and workflow compatibility. Expected findings support the integration of VR into routine dental care and provide practical strategies for overcoming implementation barriers. This research lays the groundwork for future studies, exploring long-term outcomes, broader population inclusion, and scalable, inclusive digital health innovation in oral healthcare.