Comparative study on alveolar bone healing in postextraction socket versus healing aided with autologous platelet-rich fibrin following surgical removal of bilateral mandibular impacted third molar tooth: A radiographic evaluation

AIM: This study was to evaluate and compare the bone regeneration potential of autologous platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) placed in one of the extracted sockets after the surgical removal of bilateral impacted mandibular third molars. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-five patients (10 females and 15 males; 18–35 years old) were taken for surgical removal of bilateral impacted mandibular third molar, performed in the same session. The autologous PRF was placed in one of the extracted sockets whereas the opposite side was taken as control side, and primary closure was done. Radiographic examination with orthopantomogram was done preoperatively and 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively to assess the degree of bone regeneration at the extracted site and compare it with the control side using MATLAB software and the data are statistically analyzed using paired t-test. RESULTS: PRF side had better healing and bone formation when compared with the control side as indicated by significant P values of (P = 0.06>5%) 1 month, (P = 0.00<1%) 3 month, and (P = 0.00<1%) 6 month postoperatively. The repeated-measures ANOVA showed a significant difference seen on 1(st), 3(rd), and 6(th) months postoperatively on PRF side (P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: The autologous PRF improves and fastens the bone regeneration and healing in the extracted sockets.