TikTok talks teeth: a quantitative and qualitative analysis of fixed appliance related TikTok videos

Abstract

To quantitatively and qualitatively analyse the content, reliability and quality of TikTok videos related to orthodontic fixed appliances. A new TikTok account was created, and three searches were conducted (#braces, #braceface and #bracetips). A total of 150 videos (n = 50 featured in the ‘Top’ tab were extracted for each of the three searches) were assessed for the analyses of quality, content and reliability using the modified DISCERN tool, a content score, and the Global Quality Scale (GQS). A total of 136 videos satisfied the inclusion criteria, involving 46.3% identified by dental professionals and 53.7% identified by laypersons. Of these, the videos uploaded by dental professionals rated higher in the three scoring tools compared to laypersons. The GQS score of videos was 2.36/5 and the content score was 1.31/5. Over 60% of the videos were of poor quality according to the GQS scale. A strong correlation between GQS and DISCERN scores was found. The overall content, reliability, and quality of TikTok videos regarding orthodontic fixed appliances was poor. The videos allowed patients to supplement their knowledge about fixed appliances and become more involved in their orthodontic care; however, guidelines should be explored to ensure the dissemination of accurate orthodontic information on TikTok.