Effects of Rinsing with Povidone-Iodine during Step II Periodontal Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Objectives: Antiseptics have been suggested to enhance the outcomes of non-surgical periodontal treatment (NSPT). Among these, povidone-iodine (PVP-iodine) was reported to significantly reduce periodontal pocket depths (PPDs). The aim of this study was to systematically re-assess the existing literature regarding the potential benefit of using PVP-iodine in step II periodontal therapy. Material and Methods: The scientific literature was systematically searched across electronic libraries for randomized controlled trials employing PVP-iodine during NSPT through to September 2023, using search items related to PVP-iodine and periodontitis. The selection process was performed by two independent reviewers. The primary outcomes were reductions in periodontal probing depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL). When reasonable, a meta-analysis of the included studies was performed. Results: Initially, 799 records were identified. After abstract and title screening and fulltext revision, 15 RCTs were included. The data from eight studies were merged in meta-analyses. The use of PVP-iodine had no significant effect on PPD reduction at 6 months (means [standard deviation]: −0.12 mm [−0.33; 0.09]) but it did at 12 months (−0.29 mm [−0.56; −0.02]). CAL was significantly better at 6 (−0.42 mm [−0.64; −0.20]) and 12 months (−0.39 mm [−0.66; −0.11]). Conclusions: PVP-iodine rinsing during NSPT may slightly improve patients’ PPD and CAL.