220 - Role of Social Media Use Among Pediatric Dentists

Purpose: To determine the use of social media platforms by pediatric dentists, and to identify their level of awareness and knowledge of viral social media trends and practices specifically those pertaining to dental health.

Methods: An online survey was administered to AAPD recognized pediatric dentist members. The survey included questions about social media use and preferred platform, comfort level with using social media, awareness and knowledge of current social media trends and practices concerning dental health.

Results: Of the 389 responses, the majority are practice owners and have been practicing dentistry over 20 years. Over 90% of respondants currently have a personal social media page, but less than 25% have a personal social media page related to dentistry. The most used platform is Facebook, with Instagram being the second most. Most had heard of the "viral trends" mentioned, but only a few had encountered a patient that had tried any of them personally.

Conclusion: Due its growing use, it is imperative as dental health professionals to be aware of the power of social media especially as it relates to potentially harmful dental advice or "trends". Staying current on these "viral trends" can help us stay ahead of the information that is being disseminated, and using our social media pages to promote evidence based material and information can be beneficial to our patients and colleagues .