Platelet Rich Fibrin in Vancouver

Drs. Perkins and Vasquez may use platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in some surgeries, such as dental implants, bone grafting, or wisdom teeth removal, to reduce pain and recovery times.

What is Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)?

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a product in blood cells that stimulates the repair of blood vessels and blood clotting. When we use PRF in surgery, it stimulates new tissue growth and encourages healing. When placed at the wound site, the body increases its production of regenerative cells, creating new soft tissues and bone.

Fibrin creates a network or scaffold to support the growth of new tissue and blood vessels. During the healing process, the platelets increase stem cell production, encouraging blood clotting and decreasing the risk of infection.

Benefits of PRF in Oral Surgery

  • Faster healing times
  • Less bleeding and swelling
  • Minimal post-operative pain
  • Improved integration of dental implants
  • Increase blood supply to surgical sites
  • Less chance of developing a dry socket
  • Bio-compatible without risk of rejection

PRF Use with Dental Implants

Drs. Perkins and Vasquez most often use PRF when placing dental implants, particularly for patients who may not have enough jawbone to support dental implants. PRF encourages new bone growth in empty tooth sockets after extraction to help maintain the jawbone until implants are placed.

Platelet-rich fibrin also enhances and strengthens soft tissue and bone regeneration, encouraging the osseointegration of the implants into the jawbone for maximum stability. The platelets in the PRF accelerate the healing process so that our patients can return to their activities sooner without pain, swelling, or the risk of infection.

How We Get PRF

Platelet-rich fibrin is obtained from the patient’s blood, ensuring it is 100% safe and biocompatible. A small vial of blood is drawn on the same day as surgery. The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate it into various components, including fibrin and platelets. After removing all other blood products, the PRF remains, which we use during the patient’s surgery to encourage healing, stimulate tissue growth, and minimize the risk of infection.

Platelet-Rick Fibrin FAQs

Is PRF safe?

Yes. Because we get PRF directly from your blood right before surgery, your immune system will not reject it.

Will my insurance cover the cost of PRF?

Most dental insurance policies do not yet cover PRF. However, it is not expensive, and the benefits far outweigh the cost. It does reduce the need for bone grafting and other procedures, which often reduces the overall cost of treatment.

Are there any drawbacks to PRF?

As with any injected treatment, there is a small risk of temporary pain, swelling, or injection site infection. These reactions are rare. In extremely rare instances, a patient may react to the anticoagulant in the PRF.

Can anyone use platelet-rich fibrin for dental procedures?

No. Patients with blood-borne illnesses or blood-clotting disorders such as hemophilia cannot receive PRF.

If you have additional questions about PRF use in oral surgery, Drs. Perkins and Vasquez can answer them at your initial consultation or at any point during your oral surgery process. Please contact My New Image Cosmetic and Family Dentistry at New Image Cosmetic and Family Dentistry Phone Number (360) 604-7151 to schedule an appointment.