ROSEMONT, Ill., March 27, 2025
A new study published in the March issue of the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (JOMS) � the official peer-reviewed journal of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) � finds that while social media does offer professionally produced, authoritative content from experts, many platforms also contain unverified personal experiences of previous patients that can increase the anxiety level for prospective patients.
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ROSEMONT, Ill., March 27, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- With social media use on the rise, many patients turn to platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook or X to learn about surgical procedures, including the removal of impacted wisdom teeth.
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A new study published in the March issue of the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (JOMS) � the official peer-reviewed journal of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) � finds that while social media does offer professionally produced, authoritative content from experts, many platforms also contain unverified personal experiences of previous patients that can increase the anxiety level for prospective patients.
The study analyzed data from 162 patients undergoing wisdom teeth (third molar) removal in an outpatient clinic at the Cukurova University School of Dentistry in Turkey in 2021 and 2022 and assessed patient anxiety levels using the Modi?ed Dental Anxiety Scale and Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.
Researchers found that patients who viewed random, unvetted videos experienced higher anxiety compared to those with no social media exposure. Increased patient anxiety can negativity effect the overall treatment process, potentially leading to delays, prolonged surgery time, increased costs and decreased patient cooperation, the authors said.
Researchers recommended:
As the leading organization for oral and maxillofacial surgeons, AAOMS provides expert-curated videos, podcasts and informational graphics and literature to help patients discuss their concerns with their OMS. To view the available resources, visit MyOMS.org/What-We-Do/Wisdom-Teeth-Management.
The�Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery�is published by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons to present to the dental and medical communities comprehensive coverage of new techniques, important developments and innovative ideas in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Practice-applicable articles help develop the methods used to handle dentoalveolar surgery, facial injuries and deformities, TMJ disorders, oral and head and neck cancer, jaw reconstruction, anesthesia and analgesia. The journal also includes specifics on new instruments and diagnostic equipment, and modern therapeutic drugs and devices.
Media Contact
Jolene Kremer, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 8472334336, jkremer@aaoms.org, MyOMs.org
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SOURCE American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
