Patient awareness of orthodontic mobile phone apps

Abstract

Introduction: Mobile phone applications (apps) can be engaging, accessible, versatile and have the potential to improve patient care. In 2017, 354 orthodontic apps were reported to be available, many of them targeted at patients; however, the awareness and usage of apps among orthodontic patients was unreported.

Aim: The primary aim of this study was to assess patients' current awareness of orthodontic apps.

Methods: One hundred orthodontic patients (50 new and 50 in treatment) completed a questionnaire designed to explore their awareness, access to and utilisation of orthodontic apps and social media to support orthodontic treatment. Furthermore, their willingness to engage with and use an app to aid with orthodontic treatment was explored. There were no age restrictions or exclusion criteria.

Results: Ninety percent of patients had access to a smartphone, of which 73% belonged to them (rather than a parent/relative). Apple was the most popular platform (56%) followed by Android (26%). Only 7% of patients were aware that apps were available to help with orthodontic treatment and no patients had previously used an app related to orthodontics. However, 87% of patients stated that they would be willing to use an app to support treatment. Twenty-one percent of patients had previously looked up information on social media, with YouTube being the most popular platform.

Conclusion: Current awareness of the availability of apps is poor, despite the finding that 87% of patients reported they would be willing to use an app to aid with orthodontic treatment. Given the availability of apps targeted at orthodontic patients, there is a need to assess the quality of these apps and, if appropriate, navigate patients towards high-quality, effective apps.

Keywords: mobile phone apps; orthodontics; patient awareness; social media.