Povidone-iodine's effects and role in the management of periodontal diseases: A review

This review article addresses the effects of povidone-iodine (PVP-1) and it s utility in the treatment of periodontal diseases. There are data to suppo rt the following statements: PVP-1 is a potent antiseptic and, when used as a component in a rinse with H2O2, the rinse can decrease the level of ging ivitis. With regards to patients with adult periodontitis, there is some ev idence to indicate that PVP-1 delivered via an ultrasonic device achieves b etter results in deep pockets than ultrasonic debridement when water is the irrigant. The benefits of PVP-1 in the treatment of refractory periodontit is are unclear. Subgingival irrigation with PVP-1 may reduce the incidence of bacteremia if it is employed as a pre-procedural intrasulcular irrigant; however this technique is not recommended for high-risk patients. PVP-1 is a safe antiseptic and does not appear to impede wound healing or induce re sistant bacteria. It is an approved drug whose intraoral use is an unlabele d indication. In conclusion, the literature suggests that utilization of PV P-1 is potentially beneficial in the management of some periodontal disease s. However, additional clinical trials are needed to verify this assessment , since it is based upon a limited number of studies.