Abstract
Background: This study was aimed to assess the quality and content of the YouTubeTM videos that provide information about Invisalign.
Methods: As indicated by the Google Trends application, the Invisalign-related YouTubeTM videos were searched using the key word "Invisalign". We selected the 140 videos from the first 156 results obtained after searching the key word "Invisalign" on YouTubeTM. An 18-point scale system was used to classify the videos into low- and high-content videos. The video information and quality index (VIQI) was applied to determine the quality of the videos. Statistical analyses were done using Chi-square test, logistic regression analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Mann-Whitney U-test. Results: 44 videos were classified as high-content and 96 as low-content. Most videos were uploaded by laypeople (64.28%). Definition of Invisalign, Procedure and Instructions were the most commonly discussed topics (85.71%), followed by oral hygiene (48.57%), optimal wear time, No. of trays (45.71%), and attachments (42.85%). Least discussed were third molar extractions (8.57%), Speech problems (22.85%), cost (30%) and Lip scarring and tongue soreness (31.42%). The high-content video groups had a higher mean number of views as compared to low-content video groups (211653 vs. 163817.90, P=0.394) but statistically it was not significant. The high content videos had less "likes'' on an average as compared to low content videos (211653 vs. 307056.38, P=0.017) but statistically not significant. There was no difference in the total VIQI score between the groups (P=0.071). Conclusion: YouTubeTM videos on Invisalign usually had incomplete content. Procedure, oral hygiene, number of trays, attachments, lip scarring and tongue soreness, and optimal wear time were discussed by most videos. Very few videos discussed retention, psychological impact and cost factor. General dentists and orthodontist should be aware of the information available on YouTube about Invisalign. They should be cautious prior advising their patient's for YouTubeTM surfing for Invisalign. Healthcare professionals, academic institutions, and professional organizations have a responsibility for improving the content of YouTube ((TM)) about Invisalign by uploading useful videos, and directing patients to reliable information sources.