Exploring Global Interest in Propolis, Nanosilver, and Biomaterials: Insights and Implications for Dentistry from Big Data Analytics.

Background

The growing demand for innovative biomaterials with antimicrobial properties has driven research into natural and synthetic compounds, such as propolis and nanosilver, known for their antimicrobial efficacy.

Methods

This study uses Google Trends data to analyze global search interest in five key terms-propolis, antimicrobial, antibacterial, nanosilver, and biomaterials-over a ten-year period (starting November 2014). The objective is to evaluate temporal variations, quantify correlations between the terms, and explore how external events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have influenced public and clinical interest in these topics. Search data were extracted, normalized, and analyzed using multivariate time series methods, including vector autoregression (VAR) modeling, Impulse Response Function (IRF) analysis, and forecast error variance decomposition (FEVD). Stability, causality, and inter-period relationships were assessed using statistical analysis, with results visualized through time series plots and impulse response coefficients.

Results

Key findings reveal significant interdependencies between search terms, with surges in one often resulting in immediate or short-term increases in others. Notable trends include a marked increase in COVID-19 interest for nanosilver, propolis, and antibacterial, followed by a return to baseline levels, while antimicrobial maintained a sustained upward trajectory. Biomaterials experienced initial declines but later stabilized at elevated levels.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the oscillating nature of public interest in antimicrobial and biomaterial innovations, highlighting opportunities for targeted research and commercialization. By adapting future material development to emerging trends and clinical needs, dentistry can use these insights to develop infection control strategies, improve restorative materials, and deal with persistent challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, peri-implantitis, and tooth caries treatment.