Global Trends and Perspectives on Dental Fragment Reattachment (1988-2024): A Bibliometric and Altmetric Review.

Abstract

Fragment reattachment in traumatic injuries is notable for its excellent esthetic, morphological, and functional results. The aim of this study was to investigate the scientific history and trends in publications on dental fragment reattachment through a bibliometric and altmetric analysis. The search was conducted in October 2024 using Web of Science. Two researchers selected articles and extracted key study characteristics. Collaborative networks were generated using VOSviewer software. Dimensions was consulted to measure altmetric data. The Spearman correlation was used. A total of 129 articles were included. The most cited article received 160 citations. Studies were published between 1988 and 2024. The leading journal was Dental Traumatology (n = 55). Case reports (n = 63) were the most frequent study design. The majority of studies aimed at clinical case follow-up (n = 71), with coronal fractures being most commonly reported (n = 96). Young patients were most affected in the selected studies (n = 49). Tewari N stood out (n = 8). The All India Institute of Medical Sciences was prominent with seven articles. Brazil was the most prevalent country (n = 29), and Asia was the most frequent continent (n = 57). Vosviewer demonstrated collaborations among authors. According to Dimensions, significant mentions were identified on Mendeley, followed by X users. This bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive description of the technique of fragments reattachment in traumatized teeth, which has been studied for over 36 years. Studies on this technique primarily rely on case reports describing follow-up in young patients. Intervention studies and systematic reviews are recommended. Additionally, more studies in Africa, Oceania, and North America are encouraged.