The worst part about oral surgery is the recovery process. It can take a bit of time before your mouth is back to feeling normal. Your surgeon will provide tips to help your recovery process go as smoothly as possible once you leave their office. However, they might do even more. They may administer PRP injections. What exactly is PRP, and how might it help you bounce back from oral surgery? This blog post explains.

What Is PRP?

PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. It is derived from your own blood. A member of your surgical team will draw a few vials and place them in a centrifuge, which spins very fast in order to separate the different parts of your blood. The part that has a high concentration of platelets is then processed and injected at the surgical site.

PRP is rich in growth factors, which are molecules that regulate cell growth and division. The addition of these factors at the surgical site supports the body’s natural healing process.

Benefits of PRP

PRP offers several outstanding benefits:

• It can accelerate healing. Many patients who opt into PRP therapy recover faster than those who do not.
• It can reduce pain. You may have a reduced need for painkillers, and you may experience less swelling.
• It is safe. PRP is derived from your own blood, so there is very little risk of complications.
• It supports bone grafts. PRP can enhance bone growth, which is especially important for patients who receive a bone graft prior to dental implant placement.

Who Is PRP Used For?

PRP can be used for almost anyone who is undergoing various types of oral surgery, including dental implant placement, tooth extractions, and bone grafts. Before approving you for PRP, your surgeon will need to know your medical history. If you have certain blood disorders or active infections, PRP might not be right for you.

PRP might help you feel like yourself again after oral surgery! Ask your care team if it will be part of your treatment journey.

Meet the Practice

Our oral surgery team uses advanced technologies and techniques to help our patients enjoy successful, smooth treatment. We often use PRP to speed up recovery and promote positive outcomes. If you are curious about this or any other aspect of oral surgery, we would be pleased to speak with you. Get in touch with our Katy, TX, office at 832-353-1100.