Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has emerged as a promising treatment option for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders due to its various therapeutic qualities. PRF therapy has been demonstrated to be an effective and safe treatment modality for various TMJ disorders. Its regenerative properties make it a preferable option to conventional treatments, which often only mask the symptoms without addressing the underlying problem. If you are suffering from pain, come into Henrich Dental and talk to us; our team is excited to help you. We also offer Botox for TMJ as an option.
What is PRF?
PRF enables the body to utilize its natural healing processes much more quickly. The body accelerates a variety of cells and cell types to the wound during the healing process to start the healing process.
Injectable platelet-rich fibrin, or PRF, is regarded as the most recent iteration of platelet-rich plasma. According to medical research, more platelet-derived growth factors have been shown to be incorporated into the PRF network, as well as numerous other essential proteins and nutrients. Leukocytes and mesenchymal stem cells that have been isolated from blood are examples of these. The development of new tissues and the healing of wounds are both significantly aided by the new PRF-based matrices.
Red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, platelets, and a variety of other substances are all found in our blood. A platelet is a small cell fragment that is abundant in growth factors that promote stem cells to generate collagen and elastin and speed up the healing of wounds. Using a centrifuge to spin the blood tubes, the method enables us to divide the components. Thus, the platelet-rich plasma can be simply separated from the other blood cells and components and injected into our faces for facial rejuvenation or utilized to hasten healing, promote tissue regeneration, and increase collagen formation.
This process involves drawing a small amount of blood and spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from the rest of the blood components. The platelets are then injected directly into the injured area, releasing growth factors that stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. This treatment has been successful in treating a variety of conditions, such as dental implants, bone and joint injuries, and even hair loss.
Moreover, the procedure is minimally invasive, safe, and has minimal side effects. Platelet-rich fibrin treatment has proven to be a lifesaver for people needing to recover from injury, and it continues to pave the way in medical innovation. If you’re interested in PRF treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us at our office in Tulsa, Oklahoma, today. We’re ready to answer your questions and help you get started on your journey to a healthier life.
How are PRP and PRF treatments different?
Although PRP and PRF share the same principles and objectives, they are not identical. Because platelet-rich fibrin has the ability to release growth factors over time, encouraging longer-term benefits than platelet-rich plasma therapy, it has been demonstrated to be superior and more effective than PRP therapy.
First-generation platelet concentrate is known as “platelet-rich plasma” (PRP). It is referred to as a “vampire facial” since it treats the patient’s skin with their own blood. It entails putting a blood sample in a centrifuge and spinning it quickly. The potential advantages of PRP may be jeopardized by the need for anti-clotting agents during this process.
Studies reveal that PRF is three times more potent than PRP, even without chemical additions, making it a more sophisticated variant of PRP with many superior results. Because there are no additives utilized, it creates a “super” blood clot with a lot more regeneration cells and growth factors, which can help with healing.
How can PRF help with temporomandibular disorders (TMD)?
Many of our patients suffer from TMJ, so at Henrich Dental, we want to be sure we’re doing everything we can to help. PRF may be able to assist folks who are experiencing TMJ discomfort.
One of the body’s most complex joints is the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). They can cause chronic pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, making it difficult to speak, chew, and even open the mouth. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) rank among the most problematic conditions for patients because they can be painful and difficult for dentists to diagnose and treat. The most typical signs of TMJ problems include articulated sounds (such as clicking or TMJ crepitation), joint pain during comfort and function (jaw motions), pain or tension in the masseter and jaw muscles, and/or limited mandibular movements.
Fortunately, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) can provide an effective solution. PRF is a natural substance derived from a patient’s own blood that accelerates the healing process by promoting the growth of new tissue. When injected into the affected area, PRF can reduce inflammation and promote tissue regeneration, leading to improved mobility and reduced pain.
Unlike other treatment options, such as surgery or braces, PRF is non-invasive and has few side effects. If you’re suffering from TMD, come and speak with Dr. Frank Henrich about the benefits of PRF and how it can help improve your quality of life.
What are the benefits of PRF?
A PRF injection is a less complicated in-office procedure than more conventional therapies for joint discomfort, such as taking medication or having surgery. Additionally, the dangers and problems are extremely low.
- Not as painful as PRP.
- Faster recovery time in comparison to PRP.
- After a few sessions, most patients experience a considerable improvement in their symptoms.
- It may eliminate the need for more intensive therapies like ongoing medication or surgery.
- There are a number of characteristics of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) that are known to promote healing and tissue regeneration.
- Being a byproduct of the patient’s blood, PRF is fast and safe. So there is no concern about disease transmission. Less of your blood is taken out through the IV during the outpatient surgical procedure. The PRF centrifuge machine spins down the blood after it has been added to it. The PRF is created and prepared for use in less than fifteen minutes.
- PRF is quickly and easily created in the doctor’s office.
- In a hospital or blood bank, the patient is not charged for the cost of the harvesting process for PRF. It is affordable and safe.
What is the PRF procedure like?
PRF is a relatively simple procedure. First, the patient’s blood is taken and spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other components in the blood. The remaining solution is then spread over the injured area, where it can work its natural healing magic.
PRF works by stimulating cells to grow faster, increasing the rate of wound healing and cellular growth. It also acts as a natural scaffold for new tissue, which helps to support its regeneration.
PRF adds strengthened blood back into the body and encourages healing where it is most needed. In dentistry, the jaw bone is exposed during dental surgery and cleansed. Compared to other bodily tissues, the jawbone receives very little blood. The body’s ability to heal wounds effectively and its capacity to fight off bacterial and fungal infections are both weakened in tissues where there is less blood.
When applied to the area, platelet- and fibrin-rich therapies help prevent infection at the site. Additionally, the area is enriched with proteins and growth factors that encourage the formation of new bone.
Who is PRF suitable for?
Platelet-rich fibrin, or PRF, is a treatment that is suitable for a variety of patients looking for a natural way to heal their bodies. Unlike other types of treatments, PRF is created from the patient’s own blood, making it safe and effective without the risk of allergic reactions. PRF is particularly beneficial for those needing to regenerate tissue, such as after gum surgery or TMJ treatment. Additionally, PRF has been shown to aid in pain relief.
With its numerous applications and natural healing qualities, PRF is a great option for those looking to heal their bodies in a safe and effective way. The effects of PRF can be seen in as little as one week and can continue to improve over time. The results are often long-lasting, making it a great option for those looking for natural healing and regeneration.
Our office specializes in providing top-notch PRF treatment to patients in need, using the latest techniques and equipment to ensure successful results. Whether you’re dealing with TMJ pain or dental implants, Dr. Frank Henrich is here to help. Our team of skilled professionals here in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is dedicated to providing the utmost care and attention to each and every patient, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience every step of the way. So why wait? Contact us today to learn more about PRF treatment and how we can help you achieve optimal oral health.
The Effects of Untreated TMJ
It is easy to understand how TMJ pain might be detrimental. However, many individuals ignore their discomfort because they believe it isn’t severe enough to warrant a trip to the doctor, they don’t want to spend their hard-earned money on it, they don’t have the time to go, or they are worried about what the doctor may advise them to do. If you have TMJ symptoms but refuse a diagnosis and treatment, your issue will only get worse.
Aside from chronic jaw pain, untreated TMJ can lead to:
Chronic Headaches – TMJ headaches are caused by inflammation and edema in the muscles that surround your temporomandibular joint. These muscles frequently transmit pain to your head’s other muscles and ligaments. You’ll have a headache as a result.
Since the nerve passes through the temporomandibular joint, the TMJ could worsen your migraines and make them more frequent. Your headaches and migraines will only get worse if your TMJ is not treated.
Jaw Joint Damage – You need to seek treatment if you experience pain, hear a scraping or snapping sound, or, in more extreme circumstances, have a locked jaw. Inflammation and pain will develop if you utilize your jaw joint while it is out of alignment, making therapy more time-consuming and expensive. Naturally, since you use your jaw for chewing and talking, it’s very difficult to stop using it. Your best bet to avoid further harm is to get it treated right away.
Dental Damage – Damage to your teeth is a long-term effect of untreated TMJ that is frequently disregarded. One of the most prevalent symptoms of TMJ is bruxism, which involves grinding your teeth.
The first sign that you’re grinding your teeth often is stiffness and tiredness in your jaw. Your teeth will then start to shorten from wear, crack, or chip, and you will have pain in your jaw and teeth by this point. The eventual loss of teeth is possible.
Why choose us?
At Henrich Dental, our experienced and highly-skilled dentist, Dr. Frank Henrich, is proud to offer cutting-edge PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) treatment to help patients with serious joint pain or TMJ disorders. With our advanced technology and specialized knowledge of the latest treatments in dentistry, we are the perfect choice for any patient looking to get the best care. Our PRF treatment is quick, effective, and minimally invasive, providing long-term pain relief with minimal downtime.
Dr. Henrich has extensive experience and training in TMJ treatment and will work closely with you to create a personalized plan that fits your unique needs. At Henrich Dental, we know that every patient is different, and our treatment plans reflect this. We’re here to help you find the best solution for your oral health. With a commitment to providing the highest quality of care, Henrich Dental is the ideal choice when it comes to PRF treatment. Contact us today to book an appointment with us and get the relief you need.
FAQs
Q: Are there any risks associated with PRF?
Ans: Yes, there is a potential risk associated with PRF. As with any medical procedure, there is a very small risk of infection. Additionally, if the injections are not administered properly by an experienced practitioner, it can lead to nerve damage or other complications. Because of this, it is important to choose a doctor with extensive training and experience performing this procedure.
Additionally, some people may experience bruising, redness, and swelling at the injection site, which should subside in a few days. Overall, PRF is considered a safe and effective treatment with minimal risks, but it is important to discuss any potential risks and benefits with your doctor before undergoing the procedure.
Q: In what other circumstances is PRF useful?
Ans: PRF has a wide range of uses. These include:
- are undergoing dental implant placement.
- Getting one or more teeth pulled
- have significant gum disease and bone loss.
- Your gums are receding.
- Having oral soft tissue that is not healing after being sutured
- Undergoing a sinus lift
Q: How is PRF used when having dental work done?
Ans: After the necessary therapy has been completed, PRF will be applied to the treatment area. PRF is self-degradable and has a gelatin consistency; as a result, it will disappear 1-2 weeks after being implanted. PRF may or may not be sutured into place, depending on the type of treatment and the location. Sometimes it can even be administered directly into the therapeutic area. After being implanted, PRF will begin to secrete growth factors over the course of the following week or two to aid in the healing process.
Q: Do PRF treatments have any limitations?
Ans: Not many. Patients with hematologic illnesses or bleeding disorders are obviously not candidates for this in-office procedure. To find out if PRF is a good option for you, call and book a consultation to speak with Dr. Henrich.
Q: How cost-effective is PRF therapy?
Ans: The patient does not have to pay for a harvesting process in the hospital or at the blood bank because PRF harvesting just requires 10 cc of blood to be drawn in the doctor’s office.
Q: How many times will I need to do this procedure?
Ans: Although everyone reacts differently to treatment, the majority need 1-3 sessions. As required, each series of treatments is spaced apart by roughly two to three months. You can receive as many treatments as necessary, and the risks and negative effects remain the same regardless of how many shots you receive.
Q: Are there any special instructions?
Ans: Before the treatment, it is advised that the patient have small meals and drink lots of water.
The operation could initially leave you with some localized aches and discomfort. The majority of individuals just need some extra-strength Tylenol to relieve their pain. If necessary, heat can be applied to the area. After the first week, most patients can resume their regular daily activities. Please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions or concerns.