How can the use of platelet-rich fibrin benefit the extraction of mandibular third molars?

Abstract

Surgery for the removal of third molars is a surgical procedure commonly performed in Dentistry. It is associated with inflammatory events and possible complications, being more evident after the removal of lower molars, since in most cases there is a need for more invasive approaches. It is essential for the dentist to minimize such effects, providing a more peaceful postoperative period with less morbidity for the patient. In this context, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) was developed, which is considered a platelet aggregate obtained by centrifugation of the patient's own blood and proposes to minimize inflammatory effects, accelerate healing and repair processes, and reduce postoperative complications. A literature review on the effect of L-PRF in sockets after the removal of mandibular third molars was conducted, evaluating its efficacy on pain, swelling, trismus, and healing. A bibliographic survey was performed on the PubMed, Web of Science, and Elsevier databases, using the following descriptors: 'platelet rich fibrin', 'third molar', and 'surgery', limiting to articles written in English published from 2013 to 2023. Thus, we have a current scientific overview of the real effect of using this platelet aggregate in the extraction of lower third molars. The studies reviewed, for the most part, showed positive results in improving pain, swelling, trismus, and healing.