Quality, usefulness, reliability, and accuracy of YouTube™ information on dental visits for children with autism: a cross-sectional study
摘要
The aim of this study was to analyze the content of YouTube™ videos related to dental visits for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as to evaluate their quality, usefulness, reliability, and accuracy in supporting preparation for the first visit to the dentist.
Material and methodA total of 93 videos were analyzed between April 24th to 4th May 2025. Two evaluators assessed each video using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), modicied DISCERN (mDISCERN) and a Veracity Classification. Discrepancies were resolved by a third reviewer. Recorded variables included: video type, language, country, duration, views, likes, comments, source, category, and the interaction index. As well as quality, usefulness, reliability, and accuracy classifications. Benjamini–Hochberg False Discovery Rate (FDR) method to adjust multiple comparisons.
ResultsVideos created by health professionals showed significantly higher mean GQS scores (3.9 ± 0.6) compared with those based on personal experiences (2.8 ± 0.7), with a mean difference of 1.1 points (95% CI: 0.8–1.4; p < 0.001). Webinars were rated as the most useful by dental professionals, while families valued personal experiences more highly. Tips-oriented videos were consistently considered useful by both groups.Conclusions: YouTube™ serves as a valuable, freely accessible repository of information to help families prepare children with ASD for dental visits.
Clinical RelevancePromoting high-quality, accurate, and reliable online content can support better preparation for first dental visits of children with ASD. Dental professionals should recommend trustworthy videos and participate in the creation of evidence-based educational materials.