Iodine solutions in full mouth disinfection [Uso di sostanze iodate nella disinfezione orale completa]

Efficacy of full mouth disinfection (OSFMD) protocol with sub-gingival irrigations of chlorexidine has been widely demonstrated in several studies. Similar positive results have been obtained by the use of PVP-iodine in non surgical periodontal therapy. The aim of this study is the preliminary evaluation of potential advantages of additional sub-gingival irrigations of iodine solutions in patients with destructive periodontal disease. The sample included 16 patients: // were affected by generalized aggressive periodontitis and 5 were affected by generalized advanced chronic periodontitis. During this study the original protocol introduced by Quirynen et al. (1) substituting the Chlorhexidine with PVP-iodine irrigations was followed; patients were requested to follow a specific oral hygiene protocol at home. Patients obtained a 62.76% average FMBS reduction at the time of periodontal re-evaluation. The results of this preliminary study show that addition of sub-gingival irrigations of PVP-iodine in an OSFMD protocol is a valid and safe alternative to Chlorhexidine. PVP-iodine may be used as an optimal and cheap antiseptic therapy combined with periodontal instrumentation. This drug should not be administered to patients allergic to iodine or suffering from thyroid dysfunction or pregnant/nursing women.