Is it safe to use YouTube™ to learn about root canal preparation? Analysis of content and quality of videos

Aim: This study assessed the quality, educational content, and demographics of root canal preparation videos on YouTube™.

Methodology: The study was performed for root canal preparation using the keywords “root canal shaping”, “root canal preparation” and “root canal instrumentation” on YouTube™. In total, 108 English language videos shorter than 15 minutes were acquired. After evaluating the demographic characteristics, the viewing rates of the videos were estimated. The quality of the videos was assessed using DISCERN, the Global Quality Scale (GQS) and the Video Power Index (VPI). Statistical analyses of the evaluated results were performed.

Results: Endodontists uploaded the most videos (32%), mainly shot on the teeth of real patients (30%). The number of views and the VPI were significantly higher for the videos uploaded by trademark owners than by endodontists (p<0.05), with no significant difference between videos uploaded by dentists or endodontists. As the DISCERN (reliability) value increased, the number of views/likes and the VPI increased, even though these values were not statistically significant (p>0.05). While a positive and meaningful relationship was found between DISCERN and the GQS (p<0.05), a negative and significant association was found between the VPI and the interaction index (p<0.05).

Conclusion: It was highlighted that a high-quality contribution from uploaders is needed for videos posted on YouTube™ about root canal preparation and that it is important to refer to high-quality sources of information.