Dr. Josh Shayefar
Board Certified Periodontist and Dental Implant Surgeon

Platelet-Rich Fibrin


PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin)

Healing after dental surgery should be predictable, comfortable, and efficient. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a natural, regenerative material made from your own blood that accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, and improves surgical outcomes. PRF is widely used in periodontics, implant dentistry, and bone grafting—and is one of the safest, most effective biologic tools available today.

At Connect Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we incorporate PRF into many procedures to enhance comfort, speed recovery, and support long-term clinical success.


What Is PRF?

PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) is a concentrated healing matrix derived from a small sample of your blood. It contains:

  • Growth factors
  • Platelets
  • White blood cells
  • Fibrin
  • Stem cell–signaling proteins

These elements work together to stimulate tissue regeneration, reduce swelling, and speed up the healing process.

How PRF Is Made:

  1. A small blood sample is taken before your procedure.
  2. The sample is spun in a specialized centrifuge.
  3. Natural fibrin clots form, creating a flexible membrane or liquid injectible used during surgery.

Because PRF is 100% your own tissue, there is zero risk of rejection or allergic reaction.


Signs You Might Need It

PRF is recommended for patients undergoing:

  • Dental implants
  • Bone grafting
  • Sinus lifts
  • Tooth extractions
  • Ridge preservation
  • Periodontal regeneration
  • Treatment of gum recession
  • Surgical wound healing
  • Wisdom tooth removal

While not required for every procedure, PRF significantly improves healing and reduces complications.


Benefits You Can Feel (and See)

PRF enhances healing from the inside out. Its advantages include:

  • Faster healing after surgery
  • Reduced post-operative pain
  • Less swelling and inflammation
  • Lower risk of dry socket after extractions
  • Improved bone graft and implant integration
  • Enhanced tissue regeneration
  • Natural, drug-free healing support
  • Reduced need for synthetic materials

Patients often report smoother recovery and more predictable results.


What to Expect During Treatment

Using PRF is simple, comfortable, and quick.

Here’s what typically happens:

  1. Blood Draw: A small amount of blood is collected—similar to a routine lab test.
  2. Centrifuge Processing: The sample is spun to separate the fibrin clot and growth factors.
  3. Application During Surgery:
    • For bone grafting, PRF is mixed into the graft material.
    • For implants, membranes are placed around the implant or surgical site.
    • For extractions, PRF is placed directly into the socket to reduce complications.

You may hardly notice the process, but your body greatly benefits from the biologic boost.


Aftercare & Home Care

PRF typically results in a smoother, more comfortable recovery.

Post-treatment you may experience:

  • Reduced swelling compared to standard healing
  • Less discomfort in the first few days
  • Faster closure of soft tissue (gums)
  • Improved stability in bone grafts and implants

Standard post-operative instructions still apply, such as avoiding smoking, following dietary recommendations, and taking prescribed medications as directed.


Maintenance Matters

While PRF enhances healing, long-term success still depends on:

  • Consistent oral hygiene
  • Keeping surgical sites clean
  • Attending follow-up appointments
  • Avoiding tobacco use
  • Professional cleanings every 3–4 months if periodontal treatment was performed

Good long-term maintenance ensures the regenerative benefits of PRF support lasting tissue health.


FAQs

Is PRF safe?
Yes — PRF is made entirely from your own blood, making it extremely safe and biocompatible.

Does PRF speed up healing?
Studies show PRF significantly improves soft-tissue and bone healing, reducing pain, swelling, and complications.

Is PRF the same as PRP?
No. PRF is a second-generation platelet concentrate that uses no additives and forms a natural fibrin matrix.

Can PRF fail?
PRF enhances healing, but success still depends on proper surgical technique, home care, and overall health.


Want a smoother recovery with less pain and swelling?
Contact Connect Periodontics and Implant Dentistry to learn how PRF can enhance your surgical treatment.