Top 100 most-cited articles in root canal anatomy: A Scopus-based bibliometric study.

Abstract

Introduction: Understanding root canal anatomy is fundamental for successful endodontic treatment. This bibliometric study aimed to identify and analyze the 100 most-cited articles related to root canal morphology to discover research trends, influential publications, and methodological progress in the field.

Methods: Data were extracted from the Scopus® database using the search terms "root canal anatomy" OR "root canal morphology" AND NOT "Preparation," with selection finalized on July 28, 2025. Articles were manually screened, and only English-language original research related to human teeth was included. Citation counts, publication years, journal names, countries of origin, study designs, and methodologies were analyzed.

Results: Most of the top-cited studies were published in the Journal of Endodontics (JOE) and International Endodontic Journal (IEJ), which together contributed 80% of the articles. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was the most used method, followed by dye-injected decalcified teeth and micro-computed tomography (μCT). The most frequently studied teeth were mandibular and maxillary first molars. Geographically, the United States, Brazil, and China led in publication output. Notably, there were no articles from Africa, highlighting a potential area for collaborative development. Over time, research has shifted from invasive in vitro techniques to advanced non-invasive imaging. The most-cited article was Vertucci's 1984 classification study, which remains widely used today.

Conclusions: This bibliometric analysis delivers a comprehensive overview of influential studies in root canal anatomy, offering insights into global research patterns and technological advancement.