Layan Mohamed
This prospective scoping review aims to systematically map the existing evidence on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) technologies for behavior management and dental anxiety reduction in pediatric dentistry. Dental fear and anxiety are common barriers to successful dental care in children and can negatively influence treatment cooperation, oral health outcomes, and future dental attendance. Emerging digital technologies, particularly AI- and VR-based interventions, have shown promise in improving children's dental experiences; however, the available evidence remains fragmented across different technologies, study designs, and clinical applications. The review will be conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews and reported following the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Electronic searches will be performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Eligible studies will be identified through independent screening by two reviewers, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Data will be extracted using a standardized form by two independent reviewers and verified by two additional reviewers following pilot testing and calibration exercises. The review is expected to identify the range of AI and VR technologies used in pediatric dentistry, summarize their applications for behavior management and anxiety reduction, describe reported clinical and patient-centered outcomes, identify gaps in the current evidence base, and provide recommendations for future research.