Evaluating global research trends in special needs dentistry: A systematic bibliometrix analysis

Area of Science:

• Bibliometrics
• Dental Research
• Public Health

Background:

• Special needs dentistry (SND) is a broad and fragmented field.
• Understanding its research landscape is crucial for future development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of special needs dentistry literature.
• To evaluate the scope, knowledge base, structure, and trends in SND research.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of Web of Science Core Collection (1985-2021).
• Analysis of 13,869 articles for bibliometric indicators.
• Keyword analysis to identify research themes.

Main Results:

• Peak research activity observed between 1985-1997.
• The United States was the most productive country, followed by Brazil and Japan.
• Key author keywords included 'elderly', 'caries', and 'epidemiology'.

Conclusions:

• This is the first bibliometric study of SND literature.
• Increased institutional and author collaboration is recommended.
• Future research should incorporate non-dental disciplines and focus on rare conditions.