Evaluation of the quality, reliability, and guideline compliance of YouTube videos on the tell-show-do technique in pediatric dentistry

Aims: This study aimed to assess the quality, reliability, and compliance with relevant guidelines of YouTube videos concerning the tell-show-do technique in pediatric dentistry. Methods: YouTube was searched on March 17, 2026, using the keyword “tell-show-do pediatric dentistry,” without logging into any user account. Short-form content (shorts) was excluded, and the first 100 standard videos were evaluated. Following the application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 42 videos were included in the analysis. The overall quality of the videos was assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), and their reliability was evaluated using the modified DISCERN instrument. Content appropriateness was examined using a 9-item score developed on the basis of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) behavior guidance guideline. Results: The mean GQS score of the videos included in the study was 3.12±1.02, the mean total DISCERN score was 3.00±0.96, and the mean total AAPD score was 13.6±3.0. A total of 38.1% of the videos were classified as high quality, 38.1% as highly reliable, and 71.4% as belonging to the high AAPD category. No significant differences were found in GQS and AAPD scores across video source categories, whereas a significant difference was observed in total DISCERN scores (p<0.001). Weak positive correlations were identified between video duration and total DISCERN score, and between the numbers of views and likes and the total AAPD score. Conclusion: Although YouTube videos on the tell-show-do technique appear to be largely adequate in terms of guideline adherence, their overall quality and especially their reliability vary. The production of more reliable, guideline-based, and educationally robust digital content in pediatric dentistry may therefore be beneficial.