Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Regenerative and Implant Dentistry

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has been utilized in implant dentistry for well over a decade owing to its ability to rapidly stimulate tissue angiogenesis. Over the years, much progress has been made to more effectively concentrate platelets and growth factors as well as define their clinical use for the regeneration of both soft and hard tissues. This article will give a brief history of platelet concentrates regarding the advancements made over the years from PRP towards a more autologous three-dimensional scaffold found in PRF. Next, a deep understanding of the years of research leading towards appropriate protocols and methods to best concentrate PRF will be discussed. Lastly, clinical indications and uses of PRF will be demonstrated with case examples highlighting the use of PRF in extraction site management, bone augmentation, as well as in implant dentistry. Case series studies have demonstrated the ability for an extended-PRF-membrane technology lasting 4-6 months from a 1-2 week typical membrane by using the Bio-Heat technology. This allows for the replacement of collagen membranes in standard implant dentistry procedures leading towards a lower-cost, more biological approach to everyday standard implant dentistry.