Introduction: The use of distraction techniques in pediatric dental procedures is important, as it effectively reduces dental fear and anxiety, leading to better oral care habits and optimal treatment outcomes. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the use of virtual reality as a behavioral management technique in pediatric dentistry, as well as the principles, possible benefits and challenges of its integration in comparison with other techniques.

Methodology: A search was carried out in the Pubmed, Google Scholar and Scopus databases using the keywords "virtual reality", "pediatric", "anxiety", "pain" and "fear" and 270 results were obtained. After selection of titles and review of abstracts, 40 articles were finally chosen for inclusion in this text.

Results: Virtual reality (VR) provides an interactive environment that diverts attention, occupying the brain with information and reducing pain signals. VR goggles significantly decrease pain perception and anxiety during dental treatment in both healthy and disabled pediatric patients. Despite the research, some of its side effects persist, although they are mostly mild. VR proves to be effective in decreasing pain and anxiety, overcoming normal care.

Conclusions: The use of VR as a distraction technique in pediatric dentistry care provides an immersive experience that diverts attention away from dental procedures that surpasses traditional distraction methods and consolidates as a behavioral management and pain reduction technique.