Platelet Rich Fibrin
Platelet Rich Fibrin, or PRF, is basically a natural band-aid used to aid in the healing process. PRF is a component of your own blood. Blood contains platelets, which contain growth factors that help stimulate soft tissue and bone healing. The PRF Layer is a yellow and thick jello-like biologic material derived from spinning patient blood in a centrifuge. The PRF layer is rich in fibrin, platelets, white blood cells and bone growth factors. It is an excellent adjunct to tooth extraction (and other procedures), rather than simple removal of the tooth with an unfilled bony extraction socket. During tooth extraction site healing, saliva, bacteria, and other contaminants are free to pour down into the jaw bone. When PRF is placed into the extraction site, the PRF protects the site from infection and enriches the area with proteins that accelerate healing. In sites where implants are placed, we can use PRF to occupy the space between the extraction site and the dental implant. Placement of PRF in dental implant sites decreases implant healing time and decreases the chance for dental implant failure.
You will have several vials of your own blood drawn. Your blood will be placed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. This will activate the platelets (make them release their growth factors). The blood used is your own and we do not add any additives or preservatives. All blood drawing materials, needles, and all the centrifuge processing containers, are single use and are disposed in our medical waste container after each patient. Each PRF procedure uses its own sterile materials and supplies.
The advantages to using PRF include:
- Supports and accelerates the healing process
- Slow release of growth factors including PDGF, TFB-B, IGF, VEGF
- Biocompatibility and unlike PRP, it eliminates the need to use bovine products
- Increases cellular migration to the site of injury and improves the proliferation of cells
- Increased blood supply to the extraction socket, which decreases the chances of a dry socket
- Improves the blood clot, stops bleeding (improves hemostasis) and starts the repair process
- Helps protect the site from infection
PRF is used in multiple procedures including:
- Extraction sockets, with or without bone products
- Soft tissue grafting as an alternative to using your own palatal tissue (from the roof of your mouth). We use a new technique developed in my office for select surgical scenarios.
- Repair of sinus membrane perforations
- Filling in sites with bone infections, such as cavitation sites
- During placement of immediate implants