Instagram and Aesthetic Dentistry: A Study of Content and Engagement Among Arabic Posts Related to Dental Smile

Abstract

Background: Instagram has gained ground over the past few years and is a significant health (mis)information source. Instagram posts significantly contribute to the increased demand for dental cosmetic procedures among patients in Arab countries. However, it is critical to assess the quality of these posts to ensure the dental information’s reliability and accuracy. Aim: This study aimed to assess the quality and engagement of Instagram posts related to aesthetic dentistry among Arabic-speaking users. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study analyzed publicly available Instagram posts using 15 popular Arabic hashtags related to smile alteration and Hollywood smiles. The data collected included post type, poster role, content theme, and claim accuracy. After that, the collected data were analyzed using non-parametric statistical tests. Results: The study analyzed 150 Instagram posts, predominantly shared by patients (49.3%) and dentists (32.7%). Marketing posts dominated, with 69.3% focusing on promotions. A concerning 84.0% of posts contained non-factual information. Patient-generated posts received the highest engagement but often lacked professional accuracy. Conclusion: While Instagram is a powerful platform for marketing and patient engagement, the prevalence of misinformation is a significant concern. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to actively participate on social media to ensure the dissemination of accurate information and to counteract misinformation.