ARE YOUTUBE™ VIDEOS ABOUT PORCELAIN VENEERS USEFUL FOR PATIENT EDUCATION? CONTENT ANALYSIS

Abstract

The internet plays a crucial role in disseminating information, with YouTube™ being one of the leading platforms for audiovisual content. However, the lack of quality control can compromise the accuracy of information, especially in the healthcare field. Videos about porcelain veneers have gained prominence in dentistry, but inaccurate information may influence patients’ decision-making. This study aimed to assess the reliability and usefulness of the most-watched YouTube™ videos about porcelain veneers. This is a retrospective cross sectional study based on Portuguese-language videos of up to 20 minutes in length, identified through Google Trends between January 30, 2019, and January 30, 2022. The source, target audience, reliability (DISCERN-adapted criteria), and usefulness (Hassona’s method) were analyzed. Two independent researchers evaluated the videos, and discrepancies were resolved by consensus. The significance level was set at 5%. Of the 100 videos analyzed, 68 were included. Most 80.9% were produced by dentists, and 72.1% were intended for lay audiences. Reliability was classified as moderate 64.7%, while usefulness was predominantly low 67.6%. Videos produced by laypersons had higher usefulness (p=0.002), and those targeting lay audiences showed greater reliability (p=0.041) and usefulness (p=0.004). In conclusion, most videos analyzed exhibit moderate reliability but low usefulness, particularly regarding risks and contraindications. Greater rigor is essential in disseminating information about dental procedures on the internet.