Role of social networks in promoting oral health. Narrative analysis

Abstract

Social networks have become tools for education and health promotion in general. Due to their ability to affect the behaviors and parameters of society the positive and sustained effects could increase the effectiveness and efficiency of many public health campaigns. However, social networks alone can be insufficient or misinterpreted, creating unintended consequences and inaccurate or misleading health information. Given these uncertainties, it is necessary to understand and synthesize the basis for the use of social media as part of the promotion of oral health. The objective of this study was to review previous and determine if their benefits are understood and the ethics of the dental profession is respected. A search was carried out in the indexed scientific literature, using keywords associated with health promotion and social media. The articles included were only those that carried out a substantial study of both social media and health promotion. General articles on social network and health were not included. It was concluded that professionals increasingly rely on social network to make decisions in their consultations and promote their practice. These technologies are valuable tools for the dissemination and exchange of information. Even so, its abusive use and ethical violations can lead to damages and legal consequences. More research is needed in this area to understand the real effect of this practice in promoting oral health.