Efficacy of the injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) in gingival phenotype modification: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Background: Gingival phenotype (GP), comprising gingival thickness (GT) and keratinized tissue width (KTW), plays a crucial role in preserving the integrity of gingival and periodontal tissues, thereby enhancing their resistance to trauma and mechanical irritation. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the current evidence about the changes in GT and KTW following the injection of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) in patients with thin GP.

Methods: A thorough search was conducted up to April 2024 across the following nine databases: The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Trip, CINAHL via EBSCO, EMBASE via OVID, and ProQuest.