Zirconia in dentistry: A 25-year bibliometric analysis of research trends, thematic evolution, and emerging frontiers

This bibliometric analysis aimed to map the global research landscape of zirconia in dentistry over the past 25 years, focusing on publication output, collaboration patterns, thematic evolution, and emerging research fronts.

Records published between 2000 and 2025 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection using a zirconia-specific search strategy. After screening, 6156 publications were included. Bibliometric analyses were conducted using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Bibliometrix to examine performance indicators, coauthorship and cocitation networks, keyword clustering, thematic evolution, and research frontiers. Journal metrics were obtained from the 2025 Journal Citation Reports. Correlation analyses between publication output and citation counts were performed using SPSS.

Annual zirconia-related publications increased from fewer than 20 in 2000 to 494 by September 2025, reflecting sustained research activity over the observation period. The United States, Germany, Brazil, and Switzerland were the most productive contributors, while China, the Republic of Korea, and Turkey showed notable increases in output. The leading institutions included the University of Zurich, the University of São Paulo, and the University of Bern, with authors Kern, Sailer, and Özcan forming prominent collaboration networks. Cocitation and keyword analyses indicated thematic progression from structural reliability to bonding and interface research, esthetic-driven phase development, digital workflow accuracy, implant-supported zirconia components, and, more recently, additive manufacturing. Citation-burst detection highlighted emerging topics, including monolithic zirconia, translucency enhancement, computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) precision, digital workflows, and three-dimensional (3D) printing.

Zirconia-related dental research has evolved from a focus on mechanical reliability to broader themes encompassing bonding, esthetics, implant applications, and digital workflows, with emerging interest in additive manufacturing.

By mapping research trends and thematic evolution, this bibliometric analysis provides insights into the shifting focus of zirconia research toward digitally integrated and clinically contextualized domains. These findings may support future research prioritization and methodological refinement in digital prosthodontics and dental materials.