Abstract

Aim: Research on temporomandibular disorders (TMD) has increased rapidly over the past two decades. Studies have evolved from a biomechanical framework to an understanding centered on psychosocial factors. However, the global research map of the literature has not been evaluated using bibliometric methods. The primary objective of this study is to map the bibliometric landscape of the literature addressing psychological status in TMD between 2004 and 2024, and to identify research trends, the most influential publications, authors, countries.
Materials and Methods: The study's dataset was obtained from the WOS Core Collection database. After applying the specified exclusion criteria, 1272 articles and review articles published between 2004 and 2024 were included in the analysis. The bibliometric analysis was carried out using the VOSviewer software. Annual output, country productivity, co-authorship, citation patterns, and keyword co-occurrence were assessed.
Results: A significant increase in the number of publications was observed, particularly accelerating after 2014 and peaking in recent years. Ohrbach R., Lobbezoo F., and Svensson P. were at the center of research networks, while the most cited study was conducted by Schiffman E. and colleagues, who introduced the diagnostic criteria for TMD. While the USA held a quantitative lead in scientific output, a dynamic and multi-centered collaboration network also emerged, involving Italy, Brazil, and several European countries. Studies focusing on "diagnostic criteria" in the early stages have gradually given way to psychosocial and patient-centered themes such as "depression", "anxiety", "chronic pain" and "quality of life".
Conclusion: This study presents evidence-based findings through bibliometric analysis, highlighting an increase in scientific literature addressing the psychological status in TMD over the past 20 years. It identifies the most influential authors, publications, countries, international collaborations, and research trends. Recent TMD research trends suggest a shift towards a comprehensive biopsychosocial model emphasizing the prevention of disability.

Key words: Anxiety, bibliometric analysis, depression, psychological stress, temporomandibular disorders