PRP & PRF: Helping You Heal Faster
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) are both blood products made from your own blood to enhance healing and encourage faster recovery during and after oral surgery. At Riverside Oral Surgery, we often utilize either PRP or PRF during dental implant procedures, bone grafting, and tissue grafting to promote the regeneration of new tissue and achieve quicker, safer healing times.
What Is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a part of your own blood that has lots of platelets. Platelets are tiny cells that help your body stop bleeding and heal wounds. PRP was previously only available in hospitals because it was expensive and required a significant amount of blood. Thanks to new technology, doctors can now get enough PRP from just a small amount of blood (about four tablespoons) drawn right before a procedure.
How Does PRP Help?
When you get hurt or have surgery, your body sends special cells to the area to help you heal. Platelets are one of these cells. They not only help form a blood clot, but they also release natural chemicals called growth factors. These growth factors signal your body to initiate the production of new tissue and accelerate the healing process. PRP provides your body with more of these beneficial platelets, which means you may heal more quickly and smoothly.
What Is Platelet-Rich Fibrin?
Sometimes, when you get a dental implant, your jaw may need a little extra bone to hold the implant in place. Dr. Burlingame or Dr. Suarez offers a special procedure that uses your blood to help build this bone.
Here’s how it works:
- Before your procedure, the doctor takes a small sample of your blood.
- That blood is spun in a centrifuge, which separates it into different parts:
- Plasma (the liquid part of your blood)
- Red blood cells
- A layer composed of white blood cells and platelets, known as the “buffy coat.”
This buffy coat is packed with healing and growth factors. The doctor places it precisely where the surgery is being performed. Because your body’s own cells are being used, healing is quicker, and there is a lower risk of complications such as infection, dry socket, or implant failure.
Why This Matters to You
Using your own blood in these treatments makes healing faster, safer, and more natural. It’s especially helpful for older adults who may want to recover quickly and avoid complications.
PRP & PRF FAQs
Are PRP and PRF safe to use?
Yes. Because they are derived from your own blood, they are free from contamination and will not be rejected by your body. There is no risk of cross-contamination.
Will my insurance cover PRP or PRF?
It depends on the limits of your coverage and whether the insurance carrier considers the use of PRP or PRF medically necessary during surgery. You should consult with your insurance provider before surgery. Our staff can help you maximize your benefits.
How much faster will I heal after oral surgery will I heal with PRP or PRF?
The use of PRP or PRF following oral surgery can significantly reduce the healing process. If the normal recovery time is 3-4 weeks, using PRP can reduce the time by two weeks. PRF can dramatically accelerate bone and tissue regeneration, but the rates vary from person to person.
If you have more questions, Dr. Burlingame or Dr. Suarez will be happy to explain how these treatments can help during your care. Please feel free to contact us at Riverside Oral Surgery Office Phone Number 530-223-1811 to schedule an appointment.