Platelet-rich Fibrin (PRF), A Game-Changer in Implant Dentistry?
Patients looking for implant-based restorations must commit to 3-6 months of healing. Most patients don’t complain about the length of treatment time because dental implants give them something close to the real deal. However, advancements in surgical dentistry have led to platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), which speeds up the healing mechanism and reduces inflammation. The use of PRF in implant dentistry has increased the healing rate, helping patients enjoy their new teeth sooner!
Ready to see what PRF can do for your dental health? Please book an appointment with Neal Edwards DDS, to try this breakthrough treatment in Riverside, California.
What is platelet-rich fibrin?
The PRF substance is a by-product of blood (plasma) used to promote wound healing, hemostasis, and tissue and bone regeneration. PRF acts as a scaffold for new tissue. It also acts as a barrier membrane by preventing non-desirable cells from entering the bone defects of the jaw, such as the implant placement site.
The PRF procedure is a straightforward one. It involves drawing a patient’s blood and placing it in a centrifuge for a few minutes. When placed in a centrifuge, the blood coagulates and splits into three different layers. The PRF concentrate — rich in platelets, growth factors, and stem cells — is extracted and compressed into a membrane used in multiple dental procedures.
The use of PRF in implant dentistry
PRF naturally accelerates bone healing after implant surgery or bone grafting. The PRF concentrate occupies the implant or bone grafting site, preventing soft tissue from growing into bone. PRF also reduces the infection rate because it has a high concentration of white blood cells. With PRF, patients who have undergone surgery enjoy accelerated healing with minimal post-op complications.
Implant dentistry isn’t the only treatment that can benefit from PRF. Other dental applications of PRF include:
- Periodontal bone grafting
- Wisdom tooth extraction
- Gingival grafting
- Wound sealing
Platelet-rich fibrin is the new thing in dental surgery — it promotes faster healing and reduces the chances of infection.
If you want to experience this technology in Riverside, CA, please dial (951) 614-0033 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Neal Edwards and the team.
FAQs
What is Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)?
Neal Edwards DDs always looks for ways to elevate your dental experience, even for complex treatments like dental implants. PRF is a game-changing advancement in regenerative dentistry that uses your natural growth factors to enhance tissue healing and regeneration.Â
PRF is derived from your blood. PRF contains a high concentration of platelets, growth factors, and proteins that accelerate tissue regeneration and improve healing after dental procedures.
What can I expect from the procedure?
The process is simple, quick, and painless. The doctor will draw a small amount of blood, typically from your arm. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge and separated into different segments based on their dentistry.Â
After centrifugation, we’ll carefully collect the platelet-rich layer (PRF). This fibrin matrix is then applied to the treatment area to aid healing.
What are the benefits of PRF in dentistry?
PRF offers several benefits, including:
- Faster healing and reduced recovery time
- Lower risk of infection and complications
- Less swelling and discomfort
- Completely natural and biocompatible—it doesn’t use anticoagulants or other synthetic materials
- The extraction procedure is fast, taking 15-20 minutes
- Improves the success of surgical procedures
How is PRF used in dentistry?
One of the drawbacks of oral surgery is prolonged healing. However, with PRF, patients can experience faster healing and regain their healthier smile sooner.Â
PRF promotes healing in several dental procedures.Â
- Implant dentistry: A dental implant involves surgically placing a titanium post in the jawbone. The implant requires several months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. PRF therapy accelerates integration, reducing your treatment time.Â
- Extraction: Extractions, especially surgical extractions, may require a prolonged healing time. Applying PRF to the extraction site speeds up healing and minimizes post-op complications.Â
- Bone grafting: PRF enhances the integration of the bone graft and the jawbone, stabilizing the foundation for an implant.Â
Is PRF safe?
Yes! PRF is 100% natural because it’s derived from your own blood. PFF eliminates the risk of allergic reactions or rejection. It’s a safe and effective way to enhance healing.
While PRF is safe, it isn’t ideal for everyone. PRF isn’t suitable for patients with bleeding disorders. Our team will scrutinize your medical history to determine your suitability for this in-office procedure.Â
Does dental insurance cover PRF?
Insurance coverage for Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) varies. Many insurance plans don’t cover PRF because they consider it an advanced healing aid rather than a standard treatment. However, if PRF is part of a bone graft, implant procedure, or periodontal treatment, some plans may cover a portion of the overall procedure. Always consult your insurance provider to determine your benefits.Â
Our office is excited to offer dental financing for patients without insurance. This financing also benefits insurance patients whose coverage has run out or has exclusions. Dental financing allows you to manage treatment costs with low, budget-friendly installments.Â
Do you need platelet-rich-fibrin (PRF) in Riverside, California?
Ready to experience faster healing and minimal post-op complications with PRF? Call Neal Edwards DDS at (951) 614-0033 and learn how PRF can benefit your dental treatment!
