Evaluation of Validity and Reliability of YouTube and Vimeo Contents About the Management of Tooth Fracture in Permanent Dentition: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Aim: Tooth fracture is one of the most common complications of dental trauma, which needs to be addressed on an emergency basis. The pressing demand for reliable information has prompted both professionals and laypersons to turn to video-sharing platforms like YouTube and Vimeo for guidance regarding the management of tooth fractures among local users. These platforms have emerged as significant sources for advice on dental emergencies; however, the trustworthiness and precision of the information provided have not been thoroughly examined. This research sought to evaluate the quality, accuracy, and reliability of videos on YouTube and Vimeo that address the management of tooth fractures.

Materials and methods: A search was conducted on YouTube and Vimeo between November 11, 2024, and February 27, 2025, using terms related to the management of tooth or dental fractures, and 92 videos were included for analysis. Demographic information for the videos, including platform, length, category, upload date, number of likes, and comments, was documented. The assessment of video content quality, reliability, and accuracy was conducted utilizing the Global Quality Scale (GQS), benchmarks from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), and the Video Information and Quality Index (VIQI).

Results: In total, 92 videos were examined. The average scores were JAMA: 3 ± 1, modified DISCERN: 53 ± 11, GQS: 3 ± 1, and VIQI: 5 ± 1. Statistically significant differences were observed across video types in key parameters such as the DISCERN score (YouTube: p = 0.002; Vimeo: p < 0.001), JAMA benchmark (YouTube: p = 0.045; Vimeo: p = 0.002), GQS, VIQI, and overall video evaluation (p < 0.001), emphasizing that video format, video posted, target audience, and platform influence educational impact. With the highest mean views (983,441) and significantly elevated DISCERN (63 ± 9) and JAMA scores (3 ± 1), actual procedure videos exemplify strong informational reliability and public trust.

Conclusion: The research indicates that, although the majority of the videos on managing tooth fractures are produced by dental professionals, their overall quality is subpar. This highlights the potential dangers of relying on misleading or insufficient information in these important circumstances.