Is the Injectable Platelet-rich Fibrin (i-PRF) an Effective Method for Root Length and Alveolar Bone in Maxillary Canine Retraction? A Split-mouth Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) in root resorption and alveolar bone density. Methods This study was a split-mouth randomized clinical trial that included 31 patients (9 males and 22 females, ages ranging from 15-25 years) treated for Class I malocclusion with the indicated extraction of the maxillary first premolar. After the first stage of the procedure, 150 gm of force was applied to the maxillary canine. Before the canine retraction, i-PRF was prepared from each patient's blood and then injected into the buccal and palatal aspects of the extraction sites. For each patient, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) of the maxillary canine was taken before and after treatment (T1 and T4) to evaluate root resorption and bone density. Results A decrease in canine root length was recorded in both groups after canine retraction ( p <0.001). The vertical alveolar bone increased on the buccal and lingual surfaces in both groups, and the angle of U3 to PP decreased. However, the difference was not statistically significant ( p >0.05). The total alveolar bone level increased by 0.59±1.28 mm on the buccal side. These changes were statistically significant ( p <0.05). Conclusion In this study, root resorption and alveolar bone loss were reported around the maxillary canines in both groups, i-PRF and the control. However, the difference was not statistically significant. Alveolar bone changes during orthodontic treatment were found to be small and low-risk. Clinical Trial Registration Number This study was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov with an identifier number: NCT06634888.