Sialography in Dentistry: A Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Trends

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the global scientific literature on the use of sialography in dentistry and to identify the most productive journals, authors, institutions, countries, and keywords in this field. It also sought to reveal research trends, collaboration patterns, and thematic developments over time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using data retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. The search was performed using the terms 'Sialography' AND ('Dental' OR 'Dentistry') within the category of 'Dentistry, Oral Surgery & Medicine'. Only articles published between 1970 and 2025 and indexed in SCI-EXPANDED and Emerging Sources Citation Index were included. Bibliometric indicators were analysed using VOSviewer and Biblioshiny. RESULTS: A total of 219 articles from 42 sources were included. Japan was the most productive country with 50 publications and 829 citations. Kyushu University was the leading institution, and Kanda S. was the most productive author. Dentomaxillofacial Radiology was the most productive journal, whereas the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery had the highest citation impact. Keyword analysis showed that 'sialography' was the most frequent term, while recent trends indicated increasing interest in advanced imaging modalities such as ultrasonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and sialendoscopy. The annual growth rate of publications was 4.08%, indicating a steady increase in research output over time. CONCLUSIONS: The scientific literature on sialography in dentistry has expanded progressively over time, with research output concentrated in a limited number of countries, institutions, and journals. The findings indicate a shift from conventional sialography towards advanced imaging techniques and clinically oriented topics. This study provides a comprehensive overview of current research trends and may serve as a reference for future studies in this field.