USE OF PLATELET-RICH FIBRIN IN THIRD MOLAR EXTRACTIONS

Abstract

Third molar extraction is a routine oral surgical procedure. Surgical removal of these teeth is often accompanied by symptoms such as pain, swelling, difficulty opening the mouth completely (lockjaw), and general discomfort in the oral region during the healing process. Although it is still a little used technique, the combination of fibrin-rich plasma in tooth extraction appears to be a viable, low-cost and low-complexity therapeutic option. Fibrin-rich plasma (PRF) is a second-generation platelet concentration obtained through a simplified protocol. PRF functions as a biodegradable structure that promotes the development of microvasculature and has the ability to direct the migration of epithelial cells to its surface. Additionally, it releases growth factors over a period of 1 to 4 weeks, stimulating faster tissue healing. Some studies report that the use of fibrin-rich plasma associated with bone grafts results in a larger area of new bone formation and reduces the waiting time for bone regeneration and healing. The objective of this work is to carry out a literature review to clarify the benefits and limitations of the use of fibrin-rich plasma after third molar surgery. This review concluded that Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) has an ambiguous efficacy in third molar surgery. While some studies support benefits such as reduced swelling, others present less convincing results, attributed to variations in protocols and methodologies. The use of PRF is not universally effective, requiring careful consideration. Some authors made small changes to the technique and achieved better results in reducing postoperative pain, pointing to therapeutic possibilities. Continued research is crucial to fully understanding and developing more accurate protocols highlighting the dynamics of PRF application in third molar surgery.