From simple to quite extensive bone procedures, one of the aims of many dental treatments is to 
maintain the height and width of existing bone. Bone replacement is therefore a major benefit, which can be obtained during dental therapy when a tooth unfortunately is lost.
There are many forms of bone loss, vertical or horizontal, which develop from a myriad of reasons from genetics to homecare to smoking to systemic health issues. This break down will eventually require some form of replacement transplant when a tooth is lost. In the event of inevitable loss of teeth, the socket needs to be preserved and bone loss corrected for effective replacement of teeth to be possible.
Bone grafting, whether synthetic or natural, is one of the ways by which bone is replaced and reshaped. However, in the past this required autonomous grafts or synthetic material, which may be rejected by one’s body.
A new, easy alternative for natural grafting is with the application of a product created from one’s own blood utilizing the platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) within the blood. To utilize PRF, it begins with the easy collection of a PRF clot, which can be directly applied to the affected area/surgical site for natural, rapid healing.
PRF has been scientifically proven to enhance an individual’s self-healing and regeneration process as well as help to achieve better post-operative results. Rather than the use of products from bovine and cadaver sources, the regeneration abilities of one’s own body are employed. This is considered by most to be a safer and more beneficial procedure due to its direct compatibility and does not require the use of artificial chemicals or products.
PRF is versatile in its dental application and can be used in sinus lift procedures, ridge augmentation, socket preservation, the correction of gum loss, and ridge preservation after tooth loss.
Source: Linda J. Golden, DDS, of Golden Dental Wellness Center (444 Community Dr., Ste. 204, Manhasset). For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 516-627-8400.
