International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: The widespread use of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X, etc, has revolutionised how people access health information. In Nigeria, where oral health issues are prevalent, understanding how adults seek oral health info is crucial. Despite social media's growing influence, there's a dearth of research on its role in oral health information-seeking in typical Nigeria setting such as Jos-South Local Government Area, Plateau State. Objectives: The study aims to explore how adults in Jos-South local government area of Plateau state use social media to accesses information on oral health. Methods: Quantitative and qualitative research approaches were employed. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews method. A total of 300 respondents were used for the quantitative part of the study, while 20 interviews were conducted. The study made use of the narrative format for qualitative data presentation, while quantitative data were presented on mean deviation tables using measuring scales of Strongly Agree, Agree, Undecided, Strongly Disagree and Disagree.
Result: The study revealed that social media platforms were instrumental in disseminating oral health education to adult residents in Jos-South Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria. Respondents reported acquiring valuable knowledge on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing techniques, sugar consumption reduction, and identifying appropriate healthcare seeking behaviours. However, the study also highlighted concerns regarding the credibility and reliability of oral health information on social media. Notably, issues of half-truths and misinformation were prevalent, raising concerns about the potential negative impacts of relying solely on social media for oral health education, particularly if used as a substitute for professional guidance. These findings underscore the need for verifying oral health information obtained from social media and highlight opportunities for targeted interventions to improve health literacy and ensure accurate information dissemination.
Conclusion: The study underscores the growing role of social media in enhancing oral health education and care, particularly in improving dental practice and patient outcomes. However, the findings highlight a pressing concern regarding the trustworthiness of oral health information disseminated through these platforms. As social media continues to evolve as a key source of health information, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of oral health content remains a critical challenge that warrants attention from healthcare professionals and policymakers.
Unique Contribution: This study enriches the existing literature on social media in health practice by providing context-specific insights into oral health information-seeking behaviors among adults in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. By exploring the intersection of social media and oral health in a Nigerian context, this research addresses a critical knowledge gap and offers valuable perspectives for healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers seeking to leverage social media for health promotion and education in similar settings.
Key Recommendation: Oral health practitioners and patients are advised to utilise social media as a supplementary resource for oral health information, while maintaining professional dental consultations as the primary source of guidance. Patients should be encouraged to verify online information through credible sources and consult dentists for personalised advice, ensuring informed decision-making and optimal oral health outcomes.