YouTube™ as an information source for non-surgical root canal retreatment: quality and content analysis

Abstract Background YouTube™ is widely used for dental education and patient information; however, the scientific adequacy of videos on non-surgical root canal retreatment (NSRC-RT) remains uncertain. This study evaluated the content coverage, reliability, and overall quality of YouTube videos on NSRC-RT using standardized assessment tools. Methods A YouTube search was conducted on February 6, 2025 using five related keywords. After screening the first 30 results for each keyword and removing duplicates, 20 English-language videos meeting the eligibility criteria were included. Video characteristics were recorded. Content was assessed according to British Endodontic Society headings using predefined binary scoring criteria. Two independent evaluators assessed reliability and quality using the Video Information and Quality Index, the Global Quality Score and the modified DISCERN index. Interobserver agreement was calculated. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to explore relationships between content, quality, and visibility metrics. Results Mean video duration was 8.70 ± 4.40 min; mean views and likes were 39,387.45 ± 78,751.02 and 353.00 ± 541.24, respectively, with excellent interobserver reliability (κ = 0.887). No video achieved an “excellent” content level; 15% had minimal, 50% poor, and 35% good content. Mean total VIQI was 16.55 ± 2.68 and mean GQS was 3.50 ± 0.76. Total content score correlated strongly with total VIQI (r = 0.795; p < 0.001) and very strongly with GQS (r = 0.952; p < 0.001); VIQI and GQS were also significantly correlated (r = 0.790; p < 0.001). Visibility metrics (views/likes/comments) were not associated with content or quality. Longer duration predicted higher content scores (R²=0.29; p < 0.001). Conclusions YouTube videos on non-surgical root canal retreatment demonstrate considerable heterogeneity and are frequently incomplete regarding clinically critical elements. Although some videos show acceptable quality, they should be considered supplementary rather than primary educational resources. Trial registration Not applicable.