Exploring research hotspots and trends in periodontal regeneration from 2000 to 2023: a bibliometric analysis

The aim of this bibliometric analysis was to evaluate research interest and trends in the field of periodontal regeneration from 2000 to 2023. An online search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection database to retrieve relevant studies published between 2000 and 2023. Statistical analysis and scientific mapping were performed using R language, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer to examine journals, countries, institutions, authors, keywords, and citations. From 2000 to 2023, a total of 1,932 papers were published, and the number of papers and citations showed consistent growth. The Journal of Periodontology had the highest number of publications and citations. China and the United States were the most productive countries, while contributions from developing nations in Asia and Africa, as well as several Chinese dental institutions, increased significantly. Sculean A was the most prolific author and established a global collaboration network. Seventy-seven high-frequency keywords were identified, with recent trends highlighting 3D printing, hydrogels, and electrospinning. Among the top 25 papers with the strongest citation bursts, eight focused on stem cells and six on enamel matrix derivatives (EMD)/enamel matrix proteins (EMPs), ranking first and second, respectively. Additionally, 15 reference clusters were observed, with melt electrowriting (#0), tissue engineering (#4), exosome (#5), and periodontitis (#7) gaining prominence since 2013, indicating sustained research interest. Periodontal regeneration has remained a prominent research topic. China and the United States are the leading contributors, while developing countries in Asia and Africa have played an increasingly important role in recent years. Research hotspots have evolved dynamically, driven by advancements in biomaterials. Current key themes include hydrogels, 3D printing, electrospinning, melt electrowriting and exosomes; however, clinical evidence supporting these techniques remains limited.