Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the quality, accuracy, reliability and usability of Internet information, regarding different orthodontic treatment modalities.
Method: Google AdWords identified five popular keywords: Cosmetic braces, fixed braces, Removable braces, Quick braces and risks. These were entered in five search engines, with the resultant websites analysed using five validated assessment tools. Intra-examiner reliability was assessed, descriptive and inferential analysis of the data undertaken.
Results: Good intra-examiner reliability and consistency was observed. A total of 119 websites were included for analysis, with the keywords cosmetic and fixed braces accounting for 55% of identified websites. Invisalign was the most offered treatment (80%). Specialist orthodontists produced the highest, whilst general dentists advertising short-term options produced the lowest quality scoring websites. LIDA provided the most accurate assessment of quality (mean 62.02, SD 7.48). Regression analysis found a significant relationship between author type and a questions and answer sections with both Discern (P < 0.001) and LIDA (P = 0.002) scores, respectively.
Conclusions: Quality of Information regarding orthodontic treatment was variable, with the highest scoring websites were produced by orthodontic specialists and Invisalign the most offered treatment. There is a clear need for valid and reliable websites to better guide patients.
Keywords: Internet; Orthodontic treatment; quality of information.