There are moments in dentistry when high-tech meets the simplest and most ingenious resource – our own blood.
I remember one patient well, let's call him Mr. M., mid-40s, who asked with concern after an implantation:
„"Doctor, is there anything that can speed up the healing process – but please without chemicals?"“
I hear this question more often than ever these days. Many of my patients naturally want to support their bodies – and that's exactly where the... Autologous blood therapy at the dentist into the game. It connects medical innovation with biological self-healing and has become an integral part of modern dentistry – also in Switzerland.
What exactly is autologous blood therapy at the dentist?
The Autologous blood treatment – also known medically as PRF or PRP (Platelet Rich Fibrin or Platelet Rich Plasma) – is a procedure in which one's own blood the patient's tissue is prepared in order to To promote tissue and bone healing.
That sounds futuristic, but it's surprisingly simple:
A small amount of blood is drawn, centrifuged, and within a few minutes becomes a healing concentrate processed. This will then be directly at the treatment site used – for example, after a tooth extraction, implantation or a surgical procedure.
What results is a natural „healing mass“, rich in Growth factors, stem cells and proteins, which actively stimulate regeneration.
How does autologous blood therapy work in detail?
1. Blood sampling
As with a routine examination, a small amount of blood – usually from a vein in the arm – is taken. This takes less than a minute.
2. Centrifugation
The blood is immediately placed in a special centrifuge. The rotation separates the components:
- Red blood cells sink downwards,
- Plasma containing platelets (blood platelets) and growth factors remain high.
In a few minutes, a fibrin-rich layer (PRF), which we dentists then process further.
3. The application
This PRF gel or membrane It is applied directly into the wound or surgical site. It acts like a biological plasterIt protects, stimulates healing, and promotes the formation of new tissue.
You can think of it as a small "healing booster" that works exactly where the body needs support.
Why do modern dentists rely on autologous blood treatment?
Autologous blood therapy at the dentist is not a trend, but a logical step towards biological, patient-friendly medicine.
The advantages at a glance:
- Naturally: Only substances naturally produced by the body, no foreign substances or additives.
- Faster healing: Significantly shortened regeneration times.
- Less swelling: Gentler wound healing with less discomfort.
- Lower risk of infection: Using your own blood means the highest compatibility.
- Improved bone and tissue regeneration: Provides lasting support for implants, gums and bone regeneration.
In my practice, I regularly see that patients are looking for a PRF application already After 2-3 days, significantly less swelling or pain. have as without.
Where is autologous blood therapy used in dentistry?
1. Implantology
Autologous blood therapy is particularly valuable after the insertion of a dental implant.
The PRF is applied around and supports the implant:
- The Bone integration (osseointegration),
- the Tissue adhesion,
- and reduces the tendency towards inflammation.
Especially in the case of major procedures – such as sinus lifts or bone augmentation – PRF can make the difference between a „normal“ and an „optimal“ healing process.
2. Periodontology (gum treatment)
In cases of chronic gum disease (periodontitis), the Tissue regeneration decisive.
The PRF material is applied directly to the treated areas and promotes:
- The New formation of connective tissue,
- the Strengthening the gum structure,
- and the Improved blood circulation.
Many patients report that their gums are affected after the treatment. firmer and healthier It works.
3. Surgical procedures and tooth extractions
After a tooth extraction, especially of wisdom teeth or after difficult surgical procedures, PRF can:
- Significantly reduce pain,
- accelerate healing,
- and minimize the risk of inflammation.
I remember a young patient who desperately wanted to get back on her feet quickly after a complicated wisdom tooth extraction. With PRF, the wound... Completely irritation-free after one week —and she was able to eat and laugh again without any discomfort.
4. Bone and tissue formation
When bone material needs to be built up (e.g., before implants), PRF is used as binder and Regeneration aid used.
It improves the stability of bone replacement materials and significantly accelerates the healing process.
How does autologous blood therapy work at the dentist?
A typical treatment process:
- Consultation: Explanation of the process, clarification of advantages and possible alternatives.
- Blood draw: 1-2 small tubes – takes less than 2 minutes.
- Centrifugation: Approximately 8-10 minutes in the device.
- PRF extraction: The fibrin-rich layer is removed.
- Application: Inserted immediately following the operation or treatment.
- Follow-up check: Usually after 1 week – significantly faster healing is visible.
The entire procedure takes no longer than 15 minutes and is completely painless.
How safe is autologous blood therapy?
Since exclusively body's own components The autologous blood treatment used is extremely safe.
There are no allergic reactions, no rejection, no risk of infection from foreign substances.
In Switzerland, the method is... Swissmedic and the Therapeutic Products Act clearly regulated.
Dentists who use PRF use certified medical devices and sterile disposable containers – Safety comes first.
Who is autologous blood therapy suitable for?
Autologous blood therapy is generally suitable for almost all patients suitable. Those who particularly benefit from this will:
- People aged 30 and over, in whom natural cell regeneration is already somewhat slower.
- People with sensitive or inflamed gums.
- Patients who a natural healing process without additives wish.
- Anyone who is about to undergo major surgical procedures (e.g., implants, sinus lift, periodontal treatment).
The treatment is only unsuitable in a few cases – for example, in the case of blood clotting disorders or acute infections that need to be treated beforehand.
Scientific studies
Autologous blood therapy is not just a trend, but scientifically well-documented.
Studies show that PRF:
- the Healing time increased by up to 30–501 TP3T can shorten,
- the Bone regeneration is improved,
- and the Wound healing accelerated, by releasing natural growth factors.
Swiss universities (including Zurich and Bern) have also confirmed the method in several research studies – particularly in implantology and periodontology.
My personal practical experience
I've been using PRF for several years now – and to be honest, I'd like to continue using it. I can't miss it anymore.
Especially with implant procedures, I see the difference immediately: less swelling, more stable healing, satisfied patients.
An anecdote I often tell:
One patient – an avid mountaineer – came in for a check-up a week after his implantation. He said with a smile: „Doctor, that was the fastest healing I’ve ever had. I was already hiking again!“
Such feedback repeatedly confirms to me that we are on the right track with the Autologous blood therapy at the dentist offer real added value – naturally, safely and effectively.
Costs and availability in Switzerland
Autologous blood therapy is a Self-pay service, as it is (still) not covered by basic health insurance.
Typical costs:
- Simple PRF deployment: approx. CHF 200–300.-
- Complex application in implants or bone augmentation: approx. CHF 400–600.-
The investment is worthwhile in the vast majority of cases because the healing process is faster and less complicated – and therefore also Reduced follow-up costs become.
Almost all modern dental practices in Switzerland that perform surgical or implantological procedures now offer PRF (platelet-rich plasma) therapy. Specifically ask for "autologous blood therapy at the dentist" to find a practice that offers this treatment. state-of-the-art centrifuge technology and certified systems works.
Frequently asked questions about autologous blood therapy at the dentist
Does autologous blood therapy hurt?
No, the blood draw is just like a normal lab test – a quick prick, that's all. The procedure itself is completely painless.
How long does the healing effect last?
The PRF membranes release their active ingredients over several days to weeks – depending on the type of tissue. The healing effect is long-lasting because it... natural regeneration supports.
Can PRF be combined with other therapies?
Yes, very good indeed! PRF works wonderfully with Bone grafting materials, implants or periodontal therapies combine.
Are there any risks?
So far, no relevant side effects It is known that, since it is the body's own material, there is practically no risk of incompatibility.
The biological progress of modern dentistry
Dentistry has developed enormously in recent years.
While previously foreign materials were often used, today the focus is on Bioregenerative concepts, which the body support instead of replacing.
Autologous blood therapy is a prime example of this:
- It utilizes what your body already possesses – Growth factors, stem cells, natural healing powers.
- It promotes healing without additional medication or chemicals.
- And she stands for a form of dentistry that holistic thinkingsustainable, organic and modern.
Conclusion: Natural healing – with the best your body has to offer
The Autologous blood therapy at the dentist is far more than a trend. It is a A step into the future dentistry – gentle, biological, effective.
Whether you are planning an implant, suffer from periodontitis, or simply want to optimize your healing:
This method supports your body naturally, without additives, without compromises.
I experience daily how well patients respond to it – with faster healing processes, fewer complaints and a good feeling, to have done something natural for oneself.
If you're curious whether the Autologous blood therapy at the dentist We would be happy to advise you personally on whether this is also relevant for you.
Because sometimes the best medicine lies – already within yourself.
Do you also want healthy and beautiful teeth? Schedule an appointment today. consultation and take the first step! 😊
