Concentrated growth factor in oral bone regeneration: A narrative review

Abstract

Introduction Concentrated growth factor (CGF), a third-generation autologous platelet concentrate, has been increasingly used in oral bone regeneration. This review summarizes its preparation, biological mechanisms, and clinical efficacy, and discusses current limitations and future directions. Methods We comprehensively reviewed the literature on CGF preparation, structural features, and bioactive components, and synthesized clinical evidence across various oral bone defect scenarios. Results CGF forms a dense three-dimensional fibrin matrix that supports sustained release of growth factors over several days, provides structural support for cell adhesion and proliferation, and modulates the immune microenvironment by promoting macrophage M2 polarization. Through these mechanisms, CGF enhances the coupling of angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Clinically, when used alone or in combination with bone grafts, CGF reduces postoperative complications, accelerates tissue healing, and improves new bone quality in conditions including alveolar ridge preservation, periodontal intraosseous defects, sinus floor elevation, and peri-implant bone defects. Conclusions CGF is a bioactive autologous material with multi-mechanistic benefits for bone regeneration. However, its clinical translation is constrained by a lack of standardized preparation protocols, inter-individual variability in product quality, and insufficient high-level evidence from large-scale randomized controlled trials. Future research should prioritize protocol standardization and well-designed multicenter trials to establish its definitive role in regenerative dentistry.