Reliability of information in YouTube™ videos on types of root resorption and related stimulating factors

Root resorption occurs for various reasons and can also be seen as a treatment complication in orthodontics. This study aimed to assess the reliability and quality of YouTube™ videos on root resorption and to assess whether the videos referred to orthodontic treatment and other stimulation factors.

YouTube was searched using the keyword 'root resorption', which is the most searched term on Google Trends. The first 200 videos identified using the default filter 'sort by relevance' were used. Information such as the source, type, duration, and number of likes were recorded. Videos were analyzed using a 23-point content scale related to root resorption and divided into groups (poor, moderate, and excellent) based on the Global Quality Score.

A total of 95 videos were included in the study. Most were uploaded by dentists or dental clinics (n = 64, 67.4%). The mean number of days since upload was 1536 ± 1254, and the mean duration was 5 ± 4 min. The videos had a mean of 80 ± 515 likes and 7043 ± 35,382 views, and a mean viewing rate of 1131.71 ± 8736.83. The most discussed topic was radiographic signs of root resorption. While the highest content score for the videos was 21, the average score was only 4. The mean GQS was 2 ± 1. Grouping videos by GQS showed that 55 (57.9%) were poor, 38 (40%) were moderate, and 2 (2.1%) were excellent. There was a significant relationship between videos that mentioned orthodontics (n = 62; 65.3%) and higher GQS (p = .036), and a significant difference was between GQS groups for total content levels (p < .001).

YouTube videos related to root resorption lack sufficient information and clarity, and their quality needs to be improved. Oral health professionals should strive to produce higher-quality videos.