Autologous Platelet Concentrates (APCs) for Hard Tissue Regeneration in Oral Implantology, Sinus Floor Elevation, Peri-Implantitis, Socket Preservation, and Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ): A Literature Review

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Autologous platelet concentrates with high growth factor levels are used in many fields of dentistry. In recent years, the critical role of blood-derived materials in bone and soft tissue engineering has become apparent. After tooth extraction, the alveolar bone is exposed to progressive bone resorption, which can lead to difficulties in implant placement. Hence, many studies have demonstrated that APCs have the potential for soft tissue and bone regeneration. Furthermore, no inflammatory reactions occur, and they may be used alone or in combination with bone grafts, promoting bone growth and maturation. Moreover, the released growth factors and the presence of fibrin structures can induce osteogenesis. This review aims to provide information regarding the applications, indications, advantages, and disadvantages of three APC techniques in hard tissue regeneration. ABSTRACT: Over recent years, the usage of autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) has risen in hard tissue regeneration and oral implantology. The purpose of the present review is to offer an overview of the use of three APC techniques in dentistry: platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), and concentrated growth factor (CGF). A narrative summary of articles published between January 2011 and April 2022 is provided. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Embase databases were used to conduct the search. The following keywords were used in the preliminary: “VEGF”, “TGF-b1”, “PRP”, “PRF”, “CGF”, AND “sinus augmentation” OR “implants” OR “peri-implantitis” OR “socket preservation” OR “MRONJ”. A total of 82 articles was finally included. The review then takes into account the application of the three techniques in different areas of treatment—including oral implantology, sinus floor elevation, peri-implantitis, socket preservation, and medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ)—as well as their advantages and disadvantages.