YouTube TM Videos as a Source of Information on Clear Retainers

Abstract

Background: Internet is one of the most important information sources in dental field to obtain information
regarding treatment procedures. The content and quality of information about clear retainers available on
YouTube is not known. The aim of the study was to analyze the source and quality of information about clear
retainers on YouTube.
Methods: The search keywords were “clear retainers”. The first 100 results were arranged in decreasing order
of “relevance” using default YouTube algorithm. Two orthodontists independently viewed and analyzed the
videos for video content using customized 10-point Likert scale and video information and quality index
(VIQI) to determine the quality of the videos.
Results: Out of 100 videos screened, 48 videos met the inclusion criteria. The inter investigator results were
similar in evaluating video content and the findings was not significant except for comparison by investigator
II (p=0.006). For VIQI, internal consistency showed good reliability of Cronbach’s Alpha .855. Most of
the videos were uploaded by layperson (64.6%) rather than dental professionals (29.2%). Instructions on
retainer hygiene was the most commonly covered topic (64.6%), followed by handling the retainer (60.4%).
The least mentioned content was the procedure of making the clear retainer (19.8%).
Conclusion: The results of the study sheds light on the inadequacies in the content of the YouTube videos
on clear retainers and also points out the underrepresentation of videos uploaded by dental professionals and
orthodontists. The study suggests that YouTube is currently not an appropriate source of information on clear
retainers. Dental professionals and academic institutions hold a responsibility for improving the content of
YouTube about clear retainers and directing the patients to professional online sites for reliable information.