What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in Oral Surgery?

If your oral surgeon has mentioned platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, as part of your treatment plan, you may be wondering what it is and why it might be used. The short version: PRP is made from a small sample of your own blood, and it may be applied to a surgical site to support your body's natural healing process.

PRP isn't needed for every patient or procedure. Here's a plain-English look at what it is, how it's prepared, and when it may be part of oral surgery.

What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma?

Platelets are a part of your blood that plays an important role in your body's response to injury. When tissue is damaged, they help form blood clots and release growth factors involved in healing.

Platelet-rich plasma is a concentrated preparation of those platelets and growth factors. In oral and maxillofacial surgery, it can be applied to the area being treated as one part of a broader, personalized treatment plan.

PRP does not replace the body's natural healing process. It's an additional regenerative tool that may provide localized support while you recover.

How Is PRP Prepared?

The PRP process usually begins with a small blood draw shortly before your surgical procedure. Here's what typically happens next:

• Your blood sample is placed into a specialized centrifuge.
• The centrifuge separates the blood into its components and concentrates the platelets.
• The resulting platelet-rich preparation is applied to the surgical site according to the plan your oral surgeon developed for you.

The exact preparation can vary with the procedure and the system used. Because PRP comes from your own blood, it does not involve donor blood or unrelated biological tissue.

When Might PRP Be Used in Oral Surgery?

PRP may be considered when extra support for bone or soft-tissue healing is appropriate, such as:

Dental implants

Dental implants rely on osseointegration, the process in which the implant becomes integrated with the surrounding bone. In appropriate cases, PRP may be incorporated into implant surgery to help support the healing environment.

Bone grafting

Patients who have experienced bone loss may need bone grafting to create enough support for a future implant. When appropriate, PRP can be used alongside grafting materials to provide additional support for the body's healing response. Our article on bone grafts before dental implants covers the basics.

Tooth extraction

A tooth extraction leaves a site where bone and soft tissue need to heal. In selected cases, PRP may be applied to the extraction site, which may be especially relevant when the extraction is part of a larger plan for future tooth replacement. See also Simple vs. Surgical Tooth Extraction.

PRP may also be part of treatment plans that include sinus lift procedures and other reconstructive treatments when clinically appropriate.

Is PRP Right for Me?

Not every patient or procedure requires PRP. Whether it's recommended depends on factors such as your anatomy, the extent of any bone loss, the procedure being performed, your medical history, your oral health, and your long-term treatment goals.

Before surgery, your oral surgeon will review your oral health and medical history. Advanced 3D imaging can help evaluate the jawbone, teeth, and surrounding structures, so your plan is based on your own anatomy. Your surgeon will then explain whether PRP may be a useful addition for you.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery depends mainly on the underlying surgical procedure. Temporary swelling, tenderness, or discomfort can be part of normal healing, and every patient heals differently.

Your surgeon will give you instructions for your specific surgery, which may cover oral hygiene, diet, activity, medications, and follow-up visits. Following your surgical instructions and keeping follow-up appointments lets your team monitor healing and address any concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does PRP come from?

PRP is prepared from a small sample of your own blood, usually drawn shortly before your procedure. It does not involve donor blood or unrelated biological tissue.

Does every oral surgery patient need PRP?

No. PRP isn't necessary for every procedure. Your surgeon will recommend it only when it may be an appropriate addition to your plan.

Does PRP replace my body's own healing?

No. PRP is an additional regenerative tool that may provide localized support, but your body's natural healing process still does the work. Outcomes vary from patient to patient.

Ask About PRP at Your Consultation

Planning implants, a bone graft, or an extraction? A consultation is the best way to find out whether PRP may be appropriate for you. The surgeons at Mountaineer Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, Dr. Byron Black and Dr. William Black, see patients at our offices at 1215 Virginia St E, Charleston, WV and 102 Memorial Dr, Ripley, WV.

Call Mountaineer Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons at 304-514-5500 to schedule a consultation, or visit our contact page to get in touch.