Lasers in Dentistry: A Scientometric Study From 2014-2023

Introduction: The use of lasers in dentistry has evolved significantly, becoming integral to various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The aim of the present study is to conduct a quantitative and qualitative analysis of scientific production on the application of lasers in dentistry in the Web of Science database over the past decade. Methods: This is a scientometric study evaluating scientific documents indexed in the Web of Science database in the field of laser applications in dentistry up to the end of 2023, using quantitative and qualitative indicators. Data analysis was conducted using Excel and VOSviewer software. Results: The graphs for article and citation growth showed a steady and steeper upward trend over the past ten years, respectively. The countries with the highest production, ranked first to third, were Brazil, the USA, and China, with the top two institutions also located in Brazil. The most prominent journals publishing studies on laser applications in dentistry, in order, were Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, Clinical Oral Investigations, and BMC Oral Health. Aoki was the most-cited author, with 230 citations in a Q1 journal from Japan, though ranked sixth in terms of production. The highest scientific collaborations were observed in the USA, followed by Brazil and China. Although the Journal of Periodontology ranked ninth in terms of the number of publications, it ranked first in co-citation. In terms of thematic keyword analysis, six clusters were identified: low-power laser and photodynamic therapy in dentistry, antibacterial properties of laser in dentistry, laser applications in implant treatment, laser use in restorative treatments, laser applications for dental caries prevention, and laser use for pulp vitality assessment. Conclusion: Researchers should stay regularly informed of ranking results to make more accurate decisions in research and clinical practices. Therefore, given these findings and the importance and saturation of various topics and their applications in dental practices, there is a need for institutions and researchers to reassess research priorities.