Platelet-Rich Plasma Versus Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin in the Management of Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis: A Narrative Review

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA) is a multifactorial degenerative disorder characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, subchondral bone remodeling, and chronic inflammation, leading to pain and functional impairment in affected individuals. Despite its clinical impact, effective disease-modifying treatments remain limited, highlighting the need for innovative therapeutic approaches for treating this condition in the future. This manuscript examines the biological rationale, clinical applications, and therapeutic potential of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) in the management of TMJ-OA. As autologous platelet-derived biomaterials, PRP and i-PRF contain high concentrations of growth factors and bioactive molecules that can modulate inflammatory responses and support tissue repair. PRP is associated with a relatively rapid release of these mediators, whereas i-PRF forms a fibrin matrix that may enable a more sustained release profile. Current clinical evidence suggests that both therapies show potential to contribute to pain reduction and may facilitate improvements in mandibular function. However, substantial heterogeneity in preparation protocols, study designs, and outcome measures limits the comparability and generalizability of these findings to the general population. Overall, PRP and i-PRF represent promising, minimally invasive regenerative strategies for managing TMJ-OA.