Platelet Rich Fibrin 101: What It Is & How It Works

The recovery phase following oral surgery plays a crucial role in the overall success of the procedure, yet most of it occurs beyond the dental office. While your dentist will diligently perform procedures to the best of their ability, the post-op care falls largely into your hands, with only occasional follow-up appointments. Well, thanks to platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), your dentist can now have greater control over the recovery process to ensure you heal properly and quickly. Continue reading to learn more about this significant advancement in the field of oral surgery!

What is Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)?

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a cutting-edge therapy made from the patient’s blood. It’s a concentrated form of platelets, fibrin, and white blood cells obtained through a simple blood draw and a process called centrifugation.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of each term:

• Platelet – This blood component is responsible for clotting, allowing you to heal whenever a blood vessel sustains damage. It’s the key player in forming scabs.
• Rich – This simply means there’s a higher concentration of platelets in PRF compared to regular blood.
• Fibrin – A protein formed during blood clotting, working with platelets to stop bleeding. Essentially, it acts as the framework for the platelets.

Similar to blood donation, a sample is taken and placed in a centrifuge. It will spin at 3000 RPM for approximately 10 minutes, causing the blood components to separate. The resulting top layer is PRF, which is essentially a jelly-like substance with a distinctive yellow hue. This PRF gel is then carefully extracted and stored for application post-oral surgery, contributing to an expedited healing process.

How does PRF expedite recovery?

PRF is rich in the natural healing components of the body. By concentrating on these elements, we can speed up the recovery process at the surgical site, whether it’s in the gums or jawbone. The application involves placing a mesh infused with PRF at the site, enhancing blood clotting and expediting the repair of surrounding tissues.

The outcome is a faster recovery with a reduced risk of infection. As PRF is derived from the patient’s own blood, it is inherently safe and natural. It’s a straightforward and cost-effective solution, easily applied by healthcare professionals, making it a viable option for a wide range of patients.

Applications of PRF in Dentistry

Platelet-rich fibrin is often used following complex dental treatments, such as:

• Dental Implant Procedure
• Tooth Extractions
• Periodontal Surgeries
• Endodontic Treatments
• Orthognathic Surgery

About the Author

Dr. William Twohig delivers top-notch, patient-centered care with a focus on holistic dentistry. To ensure expedited healing following complex dental treatments, Dr. Twohig is proud to offer platelet-rich fibrin. If you’d like to learn more about this therapy, visit his website or call (534) 429-5965 to schedule an appointment with him today!