Perceptions and experiences of direct-to-consumer orthodontics: insights from a Reddit-based analysis

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Public Health
• Digital Health

Background:

• Direct-to-consumer orthodontics (DTCO) offers remote orthodontic care, bypassing traditional in-person supervision.
• Growing popularity of DTCO raises concerns about patient safety, treatment efficacy, and corporate accountability.
• This study investigates public perceptions and user experiences with DTCO.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore public perceptions of direct-to-consumer orthodontics (DTCO).
• To analyze user experiences, risks, and decision-making processes associated with DTCO.
• To identify common themes and sentiments expressed in online discussions about DTCO.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative thematic analysis of Reddit posts concerning DTCO.
• Utilized Python's Reddit API Wrapper (PRAW) for data collection.
• Employed Braun and Clarke's six-phase framework for theme identification and sentiment analysis.

Main Results:

• Seven key themes emerged: treatment dissatisfaction, communication barriers, billing problems, physical discomfort, progress uncertainty, peer validation reliance, and cost-driven choices.
• Online discussions revealed significant uncertainty, reliance on peer advice, and difficulty accessing professional guidance.
• Predominantly negative sentiment was observed across various DTCO brands and user experiences.

Conclusions:

• DTCO discussions highlight prevalent dissatisfaction, uncertainty, and inadequate support.
• Self-monitoring and peer reliance in DTCO may obscure complications and elevate patient risks.
• While cost-effective, DTCO presents clinical and informational risks, necessitating enhanced patient education and awareness of limitations.