Scientific Landscape of Deep Margin Elevation: A Global Metric Overview of Evidence Development and Trend Analysis

To globally assess the scientific output related to deep margin elevation (DME) using bibliometric and altmetric analyses.

Searches were conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection and the Dimensions platform using keywords related to DME in November 2025, and update was made in July 2026. All relevant articles were included, while editorials, conference abstracts, and letters to the editor were excluded. Two independent reviewers extracted data on publication year and journal, journal impact factor (2024), citation count, study design, restorative materials and brands used for DME, restorative approach, fabrication type, institutions, authors, countries, and keywords. Author collaboration and keyword networks were analyzed using VOSviewer, and correlations were assessed using Spearman coefficients.

A total of 122 articles published between 2012 and 2026 were included, with the most cited article receiving 79 citations. Laboratory studies predominated, mainly evaluating material properties. Conventional composite resin was the most frequently used material for DME, while Fuji II LC (GC) was the most reported commercial product. DME was most performed prior to indirect ceramic restorations, with reductive fabrication being the most frequent approach.Italy was the most productive country Proximal box elevation was the most frequent keyword. Altmetric analysis showed greater attention mainly on Mendeley and X users.

Scientific output on DME is increasing but remains largely laboratory based, highlighting the need for long term clinical studies and supporting evidence-based decision making in restorative dentistry worldwide clinical practice.