Mapping the knowledge landscape of mobile teledentistry: A bibliometric analysis based on the web of science database

Abstract

Objective: Teledentistry has rapidly grown; yet, the role of mobile devices remains under-investigated. We performed an analysis of mobile teledentistry to elucidate its historical development, collaboration networks, thematic hotspots, and future directions. Methods: We searched the Web of Science; 99 articles, published between January 2013 and April 2025, were included. Publication trends, collaboration networks, and research themes were analysed using co-occurrence, clustering, and co-citation analyses with CiteSpace and VOSviewer. Results: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated mobile teledentistry research, primarily in high-income countries. A core group of prolific authors and institutions is not yet established; however, some nations have emerged as significant contributors. Keyword analysis revealed three primary research hotspots: diagnostic accuracy, care accessibility, and oral hygiene applications. Eleven thematic clusters revealed three principal research themes: comparisons with traditional methods, investigations of specific time periods or populations, and studies of mobile dental products. Co-citation analysis identified a foundational literature base centred on the feasibility and validity of mobile teledentistry diagnostics. Conclusions: The static panorama and dynamic evolution of mobile teledentistry were comprehensively elucidated, highlighting the urgent need for international collaboration to support implementation, especially in low-and middle-income countries. Future research should further evaluate diagnostic accuracy and explore sustainable strategies that may enhance health equity and help reduce global dental disparities. Clinical Significance: Existing studies on mobile teledentistry consistently report the potential to support diagnostic accuracy and suggest improved access to care, particularly in underserved settings. Evidence from the analysed studies reflects the use of mobile devices for remote screening, diagnosis, and monitoring. Therefore, this cumulative evidence base suggests the possibility of integrating mobile teledentistry into routine clinical practice, intending to reduce health disparities and improve patient outcomes pending further validation.