Intra-Oral Applications of Platelet Concentrates: A Comprehensive Overview of Systematic Reviews

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this systematic review is to provide a comprehensive overview of systematic reviews and metaanalyses on the intra-oral applications of platelet concentrates. The intra-oral applications of platelet concentrate were evaluated in the following areas: sinus augmentation, ridge preservation, implant therapy, periodontal treatment, endodontic treatment, and osteonecrosis treatment.Materials and Methods: Electronic databases were searched for systematic reviews and meta-analyses on intra-oral applications of platelet concentrates. Reviews were AMSTAR rated for methodology quality.Results: Twenty-three articles were selected, the articles reported on the use of platelet concentrates in more than one area. Nine articles reviewed platelet concentrates used in sinus augmentation, 4 articles in ridge preservation, 4 articles in implant therapy, 13 articles in periodontal treatment, 2 articles in endodontic treatment, and 3 articles in osteonecrosis treatment. The reviews were AMSTAR rated, 20 were high quality and 3 were moderate quality.Conclusion: Within the limits of the included systematic reviews, this overview suggested that platelet concentrates can be used successfully in intra-oral procedures like sinus augmentation, ridge preservation, periodontal treatments, and treatment of osteoradionecrosis. This overview also suggested that platelet concentrates can accelerate wound healing and its effects may be more pronounced in the early post-operative stage. However, with the paucity of strong clinical evidence regarding the benefits on the use of autologous platelet concentrates, each clinician must proceed with caution should they decide to implement regenerative medicine into their clinical practice.