Assessment of Social Media Influence in Dental Esthetics among DentalProfessionals’ in Udaipur, India: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Background: Many patients choose health professionals using the Internet, whether through websites or social media. This study was designed to investigate the manner in which popular social media have affected dental esthetics among dental practitioners and students.

Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study performed using a digital selfadministered questionnaire based on non-probability convenience sampling and the study was undertaken involving an Indian population that consisted of dental professionals through a questionnaire comprised 21 pre-defined responses including social media, esthetic dentistry, and the relation between social media and esthetic dentistry related questions. The pilot study was conducted on 20 patients to validate the questionnaire.

Results: This study employed a large-scale online survey in which 388 responses were recorded. More over half of the responders were women (55.9%). The majority of people use social media for communication and entertainment purposes. It was also found that the most used platform was Instagram (71.4%). Moreover, most people preferred “Tooth Whitening” and “Orthodontic Treatment” as methods to improve their smile. Conclusion: The influence of social media has led to a fast increase in demand for “dental esthetics.” Social media is the key driving force behind the mindset of the general people in pursuing dental cosmetic treatments by direct access to the profiles of “celebrities” and social media “influencers” that appear to have a “beautiful smile.”

Key words: Social media, Esthetics, Internet, WhatsApp, Smile, Dentist