Advances in orofacial pain research: a bibliometric analysis

Area of Science:

• Bibliometrics
• Information Science
• Quantitative Analysis

Background:

• Orofacial pain prevalence is increasing with societal and economic advancement.
• Bibliometrics provides quantitative insights into research trends and knowledge frameworks.
• Understanding the evolution of orofacial pain research is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map the research trajectory of orofacial pain from 2000 to 2024.
• To analyze publication trends, collaborative networks, and emerging research hotspots.
• To provide data-driven guidance for future research and resource allocation in orofacial pain.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of literature from 2000-2024.
• Keywords: "face pain," "craniofacial pain," "neuralgic facial pain," "myofacial pain," "oral-maxillofacial pain," "oral and maxillofacial pain," "orofacial pain."
• Tools: CiteSpace and VOSviewer for trend, collaboration, and co-occurrence analysis.

Main Results:

• A consistent upward trend in publication volume was observed.
• A core group of authors and expanding collaboration networks were identified.
• Current research hotspots include "diagnostic criteria," "manual therapy," "systematic review," "quality," "joint disorders," "scale," and "care."

Conclusions:

• Bibliometrics offers a comprehensive and objective quantitative analysis of academic research.
• This approach aids in understanding disciplinary developments and identifying future research directions.
• It provides a scientific foundation for resource allocation and fosters sustainable growth and innovation.