[Research trends on botulinum toxin A in bruxism: a bibliometric analysis]

Bruxism is a multifactorial condition that causes orofacial pain, dental wear, and temporomandibular disorders. Botulinum toxin type A (BT-A) has emerged as a therapeutic alternative to reduce muscle hyperactivity.

To analyze the scientific output on the use of BT-A in the treatment of bruxism through a bibliometric analysis.

Publications indexed in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed between 1997 and 2025 were reviewed. Lotka's and Bradford's bibliometric laws were applied, along with co-authorship network and thematic co-occurrence analyses.

A total of 244 articles were identified. A total of 93.1% of authors had only one publication, and collaborations were mostly regional. The most productive journals focused on dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. Review articles and observational studies predominated, with a limited number of clinical trials. Thematic evolution revealed a shift from anatomical aspects to clinical efficacy, pain management, and sleep disorders.

Although research on the use of BT-A for bruxism has increased in recent years, significant challenges remain, such as low international collaboration and limited clinical evidence. It is recommended to promote multicenter studies, standardize therapeutic protocols, and explore specific population subgroups to advance toward safer and more personalized treatments.