41 Years of Dental Materials (1985–2025): A Metrics-Based Perspective on Publication Trends

Objective
This study analyzed the 41-year publication profile of Dental Materials using bibliometric and altmetric methods.
Methods
In September 2025, searches were conducted in Web of Science and Scopus. The following variables were analyzed: citation count and density, year, language, funding agency, access type, document type, study design, country, institution, authors, keywords, and publication trends. In addition to scientific articles, other documents such as conference proceedings and editorials were considered. Collaboration networks were created using VOSviewer. Altmetric data were obtained from Dimensions, and citation data were analyzed using Spearman’s correlation. Online interest in the journal was measured using Google Trends.
Results
A total of 5346 documents were included. Publications ranged from 1985 to 2025. Most of the scientific articles were conducted in laboratories (n = 4834). The USA was the most common country of origin (n = 1542). VOSviewer showed collaboration among author groups, with Watts DC being the most frequent co-author (n = 217). According to Dimensions, the publications received the most attention from Mendeley readers. A weak negative correlation was observed between the number of citations and the year. A consistent positive trend of publishing laboratory studies was seen across all decades.
Conclusions
Dental Materials has demonstrated a significant increase in publication volume and impact over its 41-year history. Most studies were laboratory-based research articles originating from the United States. Mendeley readers and news outlets showed the highest levels of interest.
Clinical significance
This metrics-based analysis helps in understanding and consolidating scientific knowledge and in the continuous improvement of evidence-based clinical practice by encouraging future research. The submission of clinical studies and systematic reviews is encouraged for future publications.