What is Platelet Rich Fibrin?
Platelet Rich Fibrin, or PRF, is a concentrated biomaterial that can speed up the healing process. PRF relies on blood platelets, which are known for their role in healing wounds. These growth factors can now be extracted and concentrated for medical use. When injected, PRF increases growth factors in areas of the body, promoting tissue regeneration.
PRF is a relatively new part of regenerative medicine and is considered a fresh alternative to platelet-rich plasma. In the PRF process, the blood is spun at a slower speed than PRP, allowing for the preservation of more stem cells and white blood cells. With this updated procedure, PRF allows for slower release of growth factors than PRP, continuing to benefit the body for 7-10 days.
How does PRF work?
The PRF process begins with a minimally invasive draw of the patient’s blood. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge and spun at a specific speed to separate needed platelets and growth factors from the rest of the blood’s makeup. After blood has been separated into layers, the PRF layer is extremely rich in growth factors. After the RPF layer has been concentrated, the sample is ready for use at the surgical site.
What are the benefits of platelet-rich fibrin?
PRF can be used to reduce healing times in surgery, promoting faster tissue or bone regeneration. It’s not just useful in dentistry! While it can be used in maxillofacial surgery, it has also been utilized in orthopedic, cardiovascular, facial rejuvenation, and even plastic surgery.
Use of PRF also allows us to avoid unnatural anti-coagulants or additives, relying solely on the body’s existing resources. This is helpful for patients who want faster bone and soft tissue regeneration without synthetic additives.
What are the benefits of PRF in dentistry?
The applications of PRF in dentistry are incredibly helpful and wide-reaching. PRF can be highly effective in combating gum disease or recession. It is often injected after gum grafting surgery to regenerate healthy gum tissue. In oral surgery requiring bone grafting, PRF can assist with bone growth and density. PRF therapy is also commonly used during the dental implant process. When injected at the implant site, it can lead to faster healing, less postoperative pain, and an increased likelihood that the body will accept the implant. This is because the bone and tissue reintegrate faster, allowing for less time for complications. These are just some of the various applications for growth factors.
How Does Wilshire Oral Surgery Use PRF?
PRF is a straightforward, widely used element of many dental procedures. At Wilshire Oral Surgery, PRF is used in many ways, including:
- Improving healing time after extractions (including wisdom teeth/third molars)
- Enhancing bone healing in preparation for implant placement
- Boosting soft tissue or gum healing around teeth or implants
- Use as sinus augmentation (sinus lift) material
If you’re interested in utilizing the many benefits of platelet-rich fibrin in your next dental procedure, contact Wilshire Oral Surgery.