Knowledge & Awareness of PRF and its Newer Trends in Periodontics - A Survey

Abstract

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), recognized as a second-generation platelet concentrate due to its biocompatibility and prolonged release of growth factors, has gained significant relevance in the field of periodontal regeneration. Nevertheless, the level of understanding regarding its preparation methods and the various evolving forms remains inconsistent among dental practitioners. This descriptive cross-sectional study, carried out from August to October 2025 with 100 participants utilizing a structured, pre-validated questionnaire, evaluated the knowledge and awareness of PRF and its contemporary trends in periodontics, with the data being analyzed through frequency and percentage distributions. The findings indicated that while a majority of participants (79%) accurately identified PRF as a second-generation derivative, and 65% acknowledged advanced variants such as L-PRF, A-PRF, i-PRF, and T-PRF, practical challenges—including financial constraints and insufficient equipment—limited its clinical application. In summary, despite a satisfactory level of theoretical knowledge, the restricted clinical implementation underscores the necessity for organized training programs and the integration of this subject into the curriculum to improve practical skills.

Introduction

Platelet concentrates, including PRP and PRF, are widely used in medical and dental surgeries for tissue regeneration and wound healing. PRF, derived autologously, is biocompatible, easy to prepare, and promotes angiogenesis and growth factor release. Advanced PRF variants—L-PRF, A-PRF, i-PRF, and T-PRF—offer diverse applications in periodontics, implant dentistry, and oral surgery. Despite its benefits, many dental students and general practitioners show limited knowledge of PRF preparation, indications, and derivative distinctions.

Study Design:
A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 100 participants—undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students, general dentists (GP), and specialists (25% each)—using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to identify differences in PRF awareness across professional levels.

Key Findings:

• Knowledge significantly differed across professional groups regarding PRF definition, generational classification, derivatives, introduction year, and advantages of L-PRF, A-PRF, and i-PRF. PGs and specialists consistently showed higher awareness than UGs and GPs.

• Technical aspects such as fibroblast scaffold, tube requirements, and mechanisms of regeneration also showed significant group differences.

• Awareness of T-PRF tube material, biocompatibility, growth factor release, and general clinical applications was similar across groups.

• Perceptions of barriers to adopting new PRF systems and interest in training programs were higher among PGs and specialists.

• Overall, professional status significantly correlated with knowledge and perceptions of PRF (global χ² = 718.18; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The current survey reveals significant differences in the knowledge and awareness of PRF and its emerging trends among dental professionals. Postgraduate students and specialists exhibited a notably greater comprehension of advanced PRF concepts when compared to undergraduate students and general dentists, which reflects variations in their training exposure and clinical experience (9–12). While the basic understanding of routine PRF applications was relatively uniform across the groups, awareness of specific derivative characteristics, regenerative mechanisms, and recent developments displayed distinct disparities. A strong interest in additional training highlights the necessity to enhance academic curricula and provide organized continuing education programs (12,13,14).

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. Fiona Vijay V, Dr. Ebi Paradise M S, Dr. Nimisha Mithradas, Dr. Navina Ravindran, Dr. Archana B, Dr. Snophia Rani. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.