Efficacy of leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) and injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) on the rate of canine retraction: a split mouth, randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate and compare the effects of leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF), injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF; submucosal), and i-PRF (intraligamental) on the rate of maxillary canine retraction.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 33 participants requiring bilateral maxillary first premolar extraction. Participants were divided into three groups: L-PRF in extraction sockets, submucosal i-PRF injections, and intraligamental i-PRF injections. Each group followed a split-mouth design with the contralateral side serving as control. Canine retraction was done using NiTi closed-coil springs delivering 150 g force. Tooth movement was assessed monthly for 5 months using digital model measurements.

RESULTS

L-PRF (Group I) achieved significantly greater canine retraction than its control in the first 2 months (4.65 mm vs 3.77 mm). Submucosal i-PRF (Group II) also outperformed its control (4.57 mm vs 3.80 mm) but with declining effect. Intraligamental i-PRF (Group III) failed to show any significant advantage over its control (4.14 mm vs 3.74 mm). Anchorage loss and root resorption were comparable between intervention and control sites in all groups.

CONCLUSIONS

L-PRF and submucosal i-PRF significantly accelerated canine retraction in the early phase, with greater total movement at 5 months. Intraligamental i-PRF showed no significant effect. All PRF methods were safe, with no increase in anchorage loss or root resorption.