Platelet Rich Plasma
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a by-product of blood (plasma) that is rich in platelets. Until now, its use has been confined to the hospital setting. This was due mainly to the cost of separating the platelets from the blood and the large amount of blood needed to produce a suitable quantity of platelets. New technology permits doctors to harvest and produce a sufficient quantity of platelets from only 55 cc of blood, which is drawn from the patient while they are having outpatient surgery.
Why all the excitement about PRP?
PRP permits the body to take advantage of the normal healing pathways at a greatly accelerated rate. During the healing process, the body rushes many cells and cell-types to the wound in order to initiate the healing process. One of those cell types is platelets. Platelets perform many functions, including formation of a blood clot and release of growth factors (GF) into the wound. These growth factors; platelet derived growth factors (PDGF), transforming growth factor beta (TGF), and insulin-like growth factor (ILGF), function to assist the body in repairing itself by stimulating stem cells to regenerate new tissue. The more growth factors released and sequestered into the wound, the more stem cells are stimulated to produce new tissue. Thus, PRP permits the body to heal faster and more efficiently.
A subfamily of TGF, is bone morphogenic protein (BMP). BMP has been shown to induce the formation of new bone in research studies in both animals and humans. This is of great significance to the surgeon who places dental implants. By adding PRP, and BMP, to the implant site with bone substitute particles, the implant surgeon can now grow bone more predictably and faster than ever before.
PRP Has Many Clinical Applications
PRP can be used to aid bone grafting for dental implants. This includes onlay and inlay grafts, sinus lift procedures, ridge augmentation procedures, closure of cleft and/or lip, and palate defects. It can also assist in repair of bone defects created by removal of teeth, or small cysts and repair of fistulas between the sinus cavity and mouth.
PRP Also Has Many Advantages
- Safety: PRP is a by-product of the patient’s own blood, therefore, disease transmission is not an issue.
- Convenience: PRP can be generated in the doctor’s office while the patient is undergoing an outpatient surgical procedure such as the placement of dental implants.
- Faster healing: The supersaturation of the wound with PRP, and thus growth factors, produces an increase of tissue synthesis and faster tissue regeneration.
- Cost effectiveness: Since PRP harvesting is done with only 55 cc of blood in the doctor’s office, the patient need not incur the expense of the harvesting procedure in hospital or at a blood bank.
- Ease of use: PRP is easy to handle and actually improves the ease of application of bone substitute materials and bone grafting products by making them more gel-like.
Frequently Asked Questions About PRP
Is PRP safe? Yes. During the outpatient surgical procedure a small amount of your own blood is drawn out via the IV. This blood is then placed in the PRP centrifuge machine and spun down. In less than 15 minutes, the PRP is formed and ready to use.
Should PRP be used in all bone-grafting cases? Not always. In some cases, there is no need for PRP. However, in the majority of cases, application of PRP to the bone graft will increase the final amount of bone present, in addition to making the wound heal faster and more efficiently.
Will my insurance cover the costs? Unfortunately not. The cost of the PRP application (approximately $400) is paid by the patient.
Can PRP be used alone to stimulate bone formation? No. PRP must be mixed with either the patient’s own bone, a bone substitute material such as demineralized freeze-dried bone, or a synthetic bone product, such as BIO-OSS.
Are there any contraindications to PRP? Very few. Obviously, patients with bleeding disorders or hematologic diseases do not qualify for this in-office procedure. Check with your surgeon and/or primary care physician to determine if PRP is right for you.
Great Oak Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Ferren is one of the best medical professionals I've ever visited. He explained everything clearly and took great care in making sure that I was comfortable during the entire double implant process. I was amazed at how little pain the procedures caused, as he had a care plan spelled out that minimized any issues. I'd recommend him to anyone and everyone!
- Suzanne K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had two extractions on Friday, 1/6. Leading up, I was terribly anxious never having had an extraction, concerned with the procedure itself, and the post-experience. After pleasantly greeted and roomed by Hillary, I was immediately calmed by explaining what to expect the entire visit and answering all my questions thoroughly. McKenzie joined us and we chatted about running (I am a runner, too) and laughed a bit (the nitrous helped!) When Dr. Farren entered the room, he, too, put me at ease. The procedure was underwhelming in that there was literally no discomfort, pressure, or unusual sounds. Hillary was beside me rubbing my arm to further comfort me at what I assume was some "wiggling" to loosen the tooth. Again, would never have known, though! To my surprise, it took minutes to complete both extractions and was walking out the door just over an hour after arriving. My worry about post procedure was for nothing. I experienced no pain/discomfort, swelling, or bruising. I followed all the post instructions and have had no complications. I had one minor concern two weeks post, but after speaking with Melissa, was nothing to speak of. I have been telling people that I felt as though I was visiting friends and just happened to have two teeth extracted. Extraordinary staff! I have been sharing my positive experience with all those who may require oral surgery procedures. Thank you all! Especially, Hillary, McKenzie, Dr. Farren, and Melissa. Best- Marc Secor
- Marc S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
First of all, going to the dentist is my least pleasant thing to do. When I initially made the appt to see Dr Farren for a possible implant(including tooth extraction), I was very apprehensive. However, from the first appt on, every member of the staff and Dr Farren put my mind at ease with their professional, calming and knowledgeable demeanor. As I mentioned above, they answered all my questions and made sure I understood the steps of the procedures. Going to the dentist remains my least favorite but I would highly recommend Great Oaks.
- Joseph W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thank you for the excellent experience! The team at Great Oak Oral Surgery is welcoming and a real pleasure to work with. They make you feel comfortable and right at home, while providing you with everything needed for a smooth and successful visit. I'm thankful I went with Great Oak for my wisdom tooth extraction and I am wishing them all a Happy Holiday - thanks team!!!
- John D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
This place is so much more than just a practice, the dynamic this team has is out of this world. They are all kind compassionate and truly just lift your spirits when you’re around them. I went in for a consult, I was worried I’d have to schedule surgery further out but I was also placed on a call list for that. I was called a few hours and were able to get me in two days later. They literally are all about making you feel comfortable and welcomed. If I ever have to have more work done I will defiantly o my come here. So although Dr Farren may be booked out he’s worth the wait and get on that call list!
- Haley S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great Service!
- John K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I would highly recommend Dr. Seth and his staff for any dental proceedure. Everybody in this office is very kind, caring, considerate and efficient everything you could for.
- Debbie C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had a great experience. Dr. Farren and the entire staff are friendly, relaxed and extremely competent. I had implant surgery, a procedure that some people might expect to be nerve-wracking or uncomfortable, but the whole thing was a breeze. A job well done by Dr. Farren and his staff at Great Oak Oral Surgery.
- Mark D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The entire experience was wonderful. Doctor and entire staff were so kind, caring and thorough. Highly recommend them.
- TARA V
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I can't say enough about this practice. They are top notch, professional, kind, and understanding. Dr. Farren is easy to talk to, cares about a patient in pain, and is honest and forthright in his opinion on your care treatment plan. He cares about his patients and their outcome. His staff is is knowledgeable and make you feel comfortable. I will most certainly return to Dr. Farren in the future should a need arise. Highly recommend.
- Colleen T
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Superb practice that I would highly recommend to anyone
- Christopher H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was very anxious about getting my first dental implant. Dr. Faran and his staff helped make this process remarkably easy. Professional, compassionate, and super nice- the staff actually made my appointments fun! The best oart- a great outcome. Many thanks!
- Julie R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I can go on and on but I’ll keep it short. My dentist referred me to the practice, I was in so much pain the front staff was extremely kind and understood the emergent care I needed. I was set up for a ER appt where I meant with the assistant and then with Dr. Farren who explained everything that he needed to do. I then sat with the Practice Manager to go over the financial portion. Dr Farren did the extraction the same day the entire experience was painless. Not to mention I have high anxiety and I couldn’t have felt more at ease in this amazing office. I would recommend them 1000x.
- Mary V
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Overall was a great experience
- Suzanne M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Recently, I was experiencing pain my lower jaw and was referred to Dr. Farren. Dr. Farren explained that a root fracture was the cause of this pain and that extraction would be the only effective treatment. He was very thorough in explaining what the process would be and what to expect during and following the procedure. A short time after that meeting, Dr. Farren extracted that tooth. The extraction was painless, and the recovery went as expected. At my follow up visit, Dr. Farren determined that the bone loss caused from the initial root fracture had impacted an adjacent tooth to the extent that it too had to be extracted. Again, Dr. Farren was a very skilled professional and the process was painless and uneventful. Also, surgical assistant Megan was involved in both procedures. She was very helpful, compassionate and caring. Her kindness made both visits very comfortable. My experience at Great Oak Oral Surgery was very positive.
- David M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
A bit of a trip but we’ll worth it!! Wonderful staff and very helpful in explaining procedure, cost and entire process; highly recommend!
- Kim B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Beautiful facility, friendly helpful stuff and wonderful care.
- Stephen P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Farren and his staff are simply THE BEST!!! His Nurse, McKenzie and Surgical Assistant, Hillary are my favs! They all possess a great sense of humor and all are expert at what they do. You just can't find a better Oral Surgeon and staff. BRAVO!!!!!
- Jacqueline B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The BEST team around! So kind, professional, knowledgeable and compassionate. My experience here has been incredible. They put my worries at ease and I was essentially pain-free throughout the extraction and implant process. 100% recommend! Thanks you guys! 🙂
- Jess B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
This office is beyond professional and friendly. From the moment you walk into the door they make you feel at ease. Having any type of dental work isn’t very pleasant they sure know how to make you feel comfortable. Thank you Dr Farren and your staff
- Allyson C