What is Platelet-Rich Plasma?
One of the many dental treatments we offer at JP Dental is Platelet-Rich Plasma otherwise known as PRP injections.
PRP injections are made of plasma and platelets. Plasma is a clear liquid found in blood, and platelets are regenerative cells that are also found in blood. A blood sample is taken and spun in a centrifuge that separates each component, and then the platelets and plasma are used to make your treatment.
This isn’t new technology, but it is revolutionary.
PRP was first used in 1954 when the invention of flexible blood containers came about. The first time it was used, it was used for a transfusion.
Today, PRP is used for many situations. From general medicine to sports rehabilitation, and yes, even dental treatment, PRP creates a more suitable healing environment in the body to maximize results and encourage a proper healing response.
In the dental field, PRP treatments are typically used to help with damaged gums. Which, in time, helps prevent many of the most serious dental conditions. However, the method can also be used in a variety of other dental applications to prevent pain, infection, and more.
Benefits of PRP for Dental Patients
Dental patients who receive PRP therapy in West Hartford receive a number of benefits due to the enhanced healing factor experienced after therapy.
First, you can expect a considerable reduction in post-surgery pain. With the mouth, particularly the teeth, being extremely sensitive, that pain reduction is incredibly worthwhile. Instead of needing days of recovery time because you’re in too much pain to do anything, you can expect to get back to normal life in a fraction of the time.
Then, PRP helps dramatically reduce the chance of experiencing dry sockets. A dry socket is a common, and very uncomfortable, condition that occurs when you get a tooth extracted and the gum socket dries out. When your tooth is extracted, it’s supposed to form a blood clot that seals it and keeps it in good condition until the gums heal, but if that blood clot doesn’t form or comes out, it becomes a problem. It’s not dangerous, but PRP helps you avoid a painful situation.
Another primary benefit of PRP is that bone grafts will take hold faster. Bone grafts are commonly used to provide enough bone for tooth implants to be successfully installed, but they require bone from another part of your body to heal into the bone of your upper jaw. You can’t have your implants installed until the bone successfully grafts. So, speeding up that process not only helps reduce your recovery time, but it helps you reclaim your smile faster.
PRP can be used to help you bounce back faster from most serious dental procedures. These are only three examples to give you a good idea of what to expect. In general, it’s a great therapy option for most patients.
Preparing for Your PRP Dental Treatment in West Hartford, CT
PRP is a commonly used treatment, but you do need to take a few minor precautions before you start therapy.
First and foremost, talk to your doctor. You’ll likely be just fine, but your doctor is aware of any medications or existing conditions that might make PRP a bad choice.
If there are any medications in your system that can cause problems, consult with your doctor if it’s possible to skip your medications for a couple of days. If not, PRP might not be a great choice, but if you can, consider making that decision for overall faster healing.
Do not drink alcohol before your PRP treatment. Remember, this is your blood that’s used for the treatment. You want to ensure that you’re healthy and not introducing foreign substances into your bloodstream or reducing the quality of your blood in general.
Finally, try to maximize your healthy lifestyle habits. Eat healthy, drink plenty of water, and get a great night’s sleep before your treatment. What you put in your body impacts every part of your health.
None of these preparations are particularly complicated except for the medical changes you might have to make, and they can make a huge difference. Always make sure to follow these basic tips before your treatment.
Finally, ask us at JP Dental any additional questions. Our expert staff is always here to help you. Contact us today!