What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is an advanced healing technology that utilizes the patient’s own blood to significantly enhance tissue regeneration and bone growth. PRP is a concentrated byproduct of plasma, rich in platelets and growth factors, that promotes faster, more efficient healing following oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures.
Previously, PRP was only available in hospital settings due to high costs and the need for large blood volumes. However, modern advancements now allow PRP to be easily harvested in-office using just 55cc of the patient’s blood—a simple, safe process performed during outpatient surgery.
How Does PRP Work?
When an injury occurs, the body naturally sends platelets to the wound to form a blood clot and initiate healing. These platelets release growth factors (GFs), which stimulate stem cells to regenerate new tissue, bone, and blood vessels.
PRP supercharges this natural process by:
- Increasing the concentration of platelets at the surgical site.
- Enhancing tissue regeneration and wound healing.
- Accelerating bone formation for dental implants and grafting procedures.
A key component of PRP is Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP)—a growth factor that stimulates the formation of new bone, making PRP particularly valuable for procedures that require bone regeneration.
Clinical Applications of PRP in Oral Surgery
PRP is widely used in oral and maxillofacial surgery to improve healing and enhance outcomes, including:
- Bone Grafting for Dental Implants – Onlay and inlay grafts, ridge augmentation, and sinus lift procedures.
- Closure of Cleft Lip & Palate Defects – Enhancing soft tissue and bone regeneration.
- Repair of Bone Defects – Following tooth extractions, cyst removal, or trauma.
- Closure of Fistulas – Repairing openings between the sinus cavity and mouth.
Key Benefits of PRP
- Safety – PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, eliminating the risk of disease transmission or rejection.
- Faster Healing – The high concentration of growth factors stimulates rapid tissue regeneration, reducing recovery time.
- Convenience – PRP is harvested and applied in-office during outpatient procedures, eliminating the need for hospitalization.
- Cost-Effective – PRP is processed using the patient’s own blood, avoiding the high costs of hospital-based blood processing.
- Enhanced Bone Grafting – PRP improves the handling and application of bone graft materials, making them more gel-like and easier to use.
Faq
Frequently Asked Questions About PRP
Yes. PRP is 100% biocompatible because it is derived from the patient’s own blood. The entire process is performed in-office under sterile conditions.
Not always. While PRP significantly enhances healing and bone regeneration, its use depends on the specific needs of each patient.
The cost of PRP treatment is approximately $400 and is paid by the patient.
No. PRP must be combined with bone grafting materials (such as the patient’s own bone, demineralized freeze-dried bone, or synthetic bone substitutes like BIO-OSS) to effectively regenerate bone.
- Bleeding disorders
- Severe hematologic diseases
- Certain blood conditions
Your oral surgeon or primary care physician can determine if PRP is right for you.
A Cutting-Edge Solution for Faster Healing
At Kissimmee Oral Surgery, we are committed to using the latest advancements in regenerative medicine to provide patients with the best possible surgical outcomes.
Dr. Ason and our team specialize in customized treatment plans, incorporating PRP for optimal healing, reduced recovery time, and enhanced bone regeneration.