Povidone-Iodine May Be Dentistry’s Most Overlooked Antimicrobial

Povidone iodine (PVP-I), also known as betadine, is a combination of iodine and polyvinylpyrrolidone, a stabilizer. The World Health Organization (WHO) includes PVP-I formulations on its list of essential medicines, recognizing them as critical components of a functioning healthcare system.¹

A broad-spectrum antiseptic, PVP-I is used as a topical disinfectant; in surgical and nonsurgical site preparation, such as the insertion of catheters; and in antiseptic irrigation including wounds, bladder, and bowel. Oral application of PVP-I includes swabbing, rinsing, and oral irrigation (Figures 1 to 3). PVP-I is easily available over-the-counter (OTC) and can be used as a topical antiseptic for small wounds, burns, and abrasions. Its ability to treat existing infections and stop opportunistic pathogens from spreading makes it an ideal antiseptic.^2-4

The oral and oropharyngeal cavities are an ideal home for potentially pathogenic microorganisms. PVP-I is very effective against numerous viruses, bacterial strains, fungi, and protozoa that are resistant to traditional antibiotics.^3,4 PVP-I encourages the natural proliferation of normal, healthy microbiota to populate the area of application.^4,5 A growing body of data demonstrates that PVP-I is a practical, efficacious, and cost-effective tool in the prevention and treatment of various dental conditions.^2-10

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* References and figures can be found in the original article via the link above.