The Effectiveness of Low-Concentration Povidone-Iodine as Irrigant for Reducing Postoperative Complications after Third-molar Surgery

A recent study compared the efficacy of using 0.5 mg/mL povidone-iodine solution as an irrigant and coolant in reducing postoperative sequelae like swelling, trismus, and pain with the conventional normal saline irrigation during the surgical removal of the impacted lower third molar.

The study enrolled 60 individuals, 30 of whom had normal saline irrigation (group I) and 30 of whom received 0.05% povidone-iodine irrigation (group II) after mandibular third-molar surgical removal. It measured the postoperative discomforts on the second and seventh days after surgery, respectively, and found-

• Much less pain, swelling, and reduced mouth opening in the patients in the povidone-iodine group than those in the normal saline group at the second postoperative visit.
• Not much difference between either group on the seventh postoperative day. 

In conclusion, the findings of this study indicate that a povidone-iodine solution at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL outperforms regular saline solution when used as an irrigation and cooling aid in tooth extraction surgery. This suggests that low-concentrated povidone-iodine holds distinct advantages as an irrigating agent in dentistry. 

Therefore, it can be considered a superior choice for dental practitioners seeking an effective and reliable option for irrigation purposes, ultimately contributing to improved patient care and outcomes in dental procedures.

Source: Sruthy TV, Roshni A, Aslam S, et al. Low-concentration Povidone-iodine and Normal Saline as Irrigant on Reducing Postoperative Complications after the Third-molar Surgery: A Comparative Study. The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice. 2022;23(7):733-738. PMID: 36440521.