Platelet-derived growth factor plays a significant role in periodontal wound healing; it does this by promoting angiogenesis, stimulating mesenchymal stem cell differentiation and recruiting/promoting osteoblast formation. Clinical application of PDGF during periodontal regeneration may promote the early healing of both soft and hard tissue. Histological studies have revealed complete periodontal regeneration, including the periodontal ligament, cementum and alveolar bone. The use of PDGF during ridge augmentation and sinus augmentation as part of implantology is able to achieve mature bone more quickly and this shortens the treatment time when implanting a support prosthesis. This review of studies investigating the cell biology of PDGF and its application in periodontology and implantology is able to provide clinicians in future practice with additional validation of their use of a growth factor that brings about tissue-engineering. (J Taiwan Periodontol, 21(1):60-72, 2016)