Understanding
Platelet-Rich Fibrin

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has the potential to transform the way we treat TMJ by regenerating lost tissue, healing, and resolving pain from TMJ disorders.

PRF is a type of regenerative therapy that harnesses your body’s natural healing power. By carefully processing your blood, we create a concentrated fibrin matrix1 that contains growth factors2 that your body will recognize as its own. It uses the PRF to repair and regenerate tissue, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the body’s overall healing process where damage has occurred due to TMJ disorder.

The Therapy Process

We begin with a simple blood draw, typically from your arm just like you would see in a medical lab. The blood is collected in special tubes designed to facilitate the separation of the blood components. Red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets,3 plasma,4 and plasma proteins.5 Each of these blood components has a specific function in your body that supports the systems that keep you healthy. One type delivers oxygen to your tissues, another supports your circulatory system, another your immune system, and so forth. 

Unlike traditional blood collection tubes, there are no anticoagulants6 or additives needed for testing blood levels. We need only the pure elements in your blood. The collected blood is centrifuged7 at a relatively low speed. Gently spinning separates the blood into three distinct layers. Red blood cells sink to the bottom, a layer of platelet-poor plasma rises to the top, and in the middle is a concentrated layer of healing factors known as Platelet-Rich Fibrin, or PRF.

A vial of separated blood after spinning in a centrifuge machine
graphic showing the process of obtaining PRF using blood and centrifusion

This vital middle layer of PRF is carefully extracted and prepared for therapeutic use. It is applied either topically, or injected into the targeted site, depending on the specific condition being treated. For TMJ, an injection is usually the method.

Once introduced into your body, PRF initiates a cascade of biological reactions. Platelets in the PRF release growth factors and cytokines8, stimulating the body’s natural healing processes. The growth factors encourage new cell creation and proliferation, tissue regeneration, and collagen9 production, all of which contribute to accelerated healing. In the case of TMJ pain, PRF helps reduce inflammation, repair damaged tissues in and around the jaw, and promote overall recovery of the temporomandibular joint.

Why We Use PRF 

We recommend PRF because the therapy process is minimally invasive, and, because PRF comes from your own blood, there is little risk of adverse reactions or rejection. Your body’s innate ability to heal is harnessed and amplified, providing a natural, safe, and effective solution for TMJ pain and other related conditions. As a result, you experience reduced pain, improved joint function, and better quality of life! 

Ask Us About PRF Therapy

Contact us with questions about PRF. Schedule an appointment to discuss its benefits and whether you might be a candidate for the therapy. If you’re tired of living with TMJ pain, there is always a way forward to healing. Please contact us today and let’s take the first steps.

Jenna’s PRF Experience

Exploring Key Concepts of TMJ Therapy Using PRF Treatment

To truly grasp the magic behind PRF therapy, we need to dive into some scientific terms we used above. So, let’s unravel the mystery behind these fancy words in a way that’s easy to understand.

1. Fibrin Matrix: Think of the fibrin matrix as a natural scaffold made of protein. It’s like a cozy home where cells can snuggle up, grow, and repair damaged tissues. In PRF therapy, this scaffold provides a safe space for healing.

2. Growth Factors: Picture growth factors as little messengers in our body. They tell cells to grow, divide, and repair. In PRF therapy, these messengers speed up the healing process by encouraging cells to move and fix things.

3. Red Blood Cells, White Blood Cells, and Platelets: Red blood cells carry oxygen, white blood cells fight off infections, and platelets help in clotting. In PRF therapy, these elements are separated from our blood and concentrated to create the magic PRF potion that promotes healing.

4. Plasma: Plasma is like the watery background in our blood, carrying essential stuff like nutrients and hormones. It’s the body’s transportation system, ensuring everything reaches where it’s needed.

5. Plasma Proteins: Plasma proteins are like the body’s special forces. They include enzymes, antibodies, and hormones that fight off invaders and help repair tissues. In PRF therapy, they’re the superheroes aiding in the healing process.

6. Anticoagulants: Anticoagulants are the peacekeepers. They prevent our blood from clotting too quickly. In PRF therapy, they ensure that the healing magic happens smoothly by preventing premature clotting.

7. Centrifuge: A centrifuge is the scientist’s magic wand. It’s a machine that spins things really fast. In PRF therapy, it separates the useful components from our blood, allowing us to concentrate the healing goodness into PRF.

8. Cytokines: Cytokines are like text messages between cells. They help cells communicate and coordinate with each other. In PRF therapy, they play the role of facilitators, making sure everyone is on the same page during the healing process.

9. Collagen: Collagen is the body’s natural builder. It’s the glue that holds our tissues together, providing strength and flexibility. In PRF therapy, collagen is like the construction worker, creating a sturdy foundation for new, healthy tissues.

By harnessing the power of our body’s natural processes, PRF therapy opens doors to innovative treatments, promising hope and healing for those in need. So, next time you hear these terms, remember, it’s just the body’s way of working its magic and making us feel better!

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