Platelet rich fibrin- a boon to apexogenesis

Background: Regenerative endodontic procedures are biologically based procedures which deals with the regeneration of pulp like tissue, idealistically the pulp-dentin complex. PRF has very significant slow sustained release of key growth factors like PDGF and TGF for at least 1 week and up to 28 days, which means, PRF could release growth factors with its own biological scaffold for wound healing process. This leads to the unique idea of using PRF as a capping agent for reparative dentin formation or as a biomaterial for apexogenesis. Method: A 9 year old boy reported to our department with a chief complaint of broken upper front tooth. Radiograph revealed an open apex with 21. The treatment plan included apexogenesis using Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) followed by MTA and composite restoration after 24 hours. Result: In the follow up of 3, 6 months,9 months and1 year the radiographs revealed gradual closure of apex. Conclusion: PRF can be a compatible material for apexogenesis and root maturation.