The antibacterial effectiveness of povidone-iodine (PVP-I) in early childhood caries

Introduction
The generally accepted model of the prophylactic and therapeutic management of early childhood caries (ECC) and severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) does not include practices oriented to directly eliminate the causative factor: cariogenic bacteria.

Aim
The aim of the paper was to present the antibacterial effectiveness of povidone-iodine (PVP-I) in the treatment of deciduous teeth.

Methods
Based on the reyiew of the recent literature available through PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE, the paper presents the characteristics of PVP-I, the spectrum and mechanism of its antibacterial activity, application methods in clinical practice, and research results concerning the PVP-I effect on the concentration of some cariogenic bacteria.

Discussion
The PVP-I application in a dental practice is a non-invasive, quick, painless, and inexpensive procedure. It may be complemented by the use of PVP-I-containing products at home. It effectively inhibits the disease progress and prevents caries by reducing the number of cariogenic bacteria. Multiple use of PVP-I does not lead to the development of the drug-resistant bacterial strains and does not cause adverse effects.

Conclusion
Due to its antibacterial effectiveness, povidone-iodine should be introduced into the generally accepted model of the prophylactic and therapeutic management of early childhood caries.