Dimitris Nikolidakis

The Effect of Biological Factors on Bone Healing in Implant Dentistry Dimitris Nikolidakis

Current research focuses on parameters that may improve the bone response to oral implants. One of the investigated parameters is the effect of growth factors on bone healing around medical and oral implants. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a new approach in tissue regeneration and a developing area for clinicians and researchers. It is used in various surgical fields, including oral and maxillofacial surgery. PRP is prepared out of the patient?s own blood and contains growth factors that influence wound healing. Among them, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor (TGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) play a pivotal role in tissue repair mechanisms. Although the growth factors and mechanisms involved are still poorly understood, the easy application of PRP in the clinic and its possible beneficial outcome, including reduction of bleeding, rapid soft tissue healing and bone regeneration, holds promise for new treatment approaches. However, animal studies and human trials demonstrate conflicting results regarding the application of PRP. Well-designed studies are needed to provide solid evidence of the PRP capacity.