The evolution of age estimation methods in forensic odontology: a bibliometric analysis from 2002 to 2024

Dental age estimation (DAE) is critical in forensic practice. However, quantitative analyses of key parameters like sample types and sizes had yet to be performed. This bibliometric study analyzed 187 research articles from the Web of Science Core Collection, independently screened by two researchers. After that, co-occurrence analysis, and data visualization were employed. Over this two decades, India, Germany, and China were the most productive nations, with Germany achieving the highest cumulative impact factor. Leading institutions included Münster University, Leuven University, and Ghent University. Key contributors were Schmeling and Timme. The most studied teeth were third molars, canines, and central incisors. Imaging modalities showed distinct trends: OPG dominated pre-2015 (typically < 2000 samples), while CBCT has increased post-2015 (typically < 400 samples). Periapical radiographs are seldom used in contemporary studies, while MRI is still minimally utilized in dental age estimation research compared to other modalities. Primary publication journals are International Journal of Legal Medicine and Forensic Science International. Keywords occurrence revealed three methodological phases: Initial Phase (pre-2016): Focused on anatomical structures and forensic applications. Transitional Phase (2016-2020): Increased adoption of 3D imaging techniques, particularly CBCT. Current Phase (post-2020): Shifted towards AI-driven data methods. Based on our research, we consider that the primary research will shift toward: developing whole-age estimation models, enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthening international research networks.