Can a simple, over-the-counter antiseptic mouthwash stop the virus that causes COVID-19? This study tested whether oral solutions containing povidone-iodine (PVP-I) could kill SARS-CoV-2—and how quickly.
Researchers focused on reducing risk for dentists and surgeons, who regularly work in high-aerosol environments.
Methods: How They Tested It
- Virus used: Live SARS-CoV-2 (USA-WA1/2020 strain)
- Tested PVP-I concentrations: 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%
- Controls:
- Water (negative)
- 70% ethanol (positive)
- Exposure times: 15 and 30 seconds
- Assay: End-point dilution to calculate viral load reduction (log₁₀)
Key Results
Within 15 seconds, all PVP-I mouthwash solutions achieved:
- ≥ 99.99% virus inactivation (≥3 log₁₀ reduction)
- No detectable viral remnants
- Greater efficacy than 70% ethanol at 15 seconds
🧪 At 30 seconds, all PVP-I solutions and ethanol showed complete viral inactivation
Implications for Dental & Surgical Settings
SARS-CoV-2 is found in high amounts in saliva and the oropharynx—making oral rinsing a potentially powerful tool in infection control.
What PVP-I Offers:
- Fast-acting virucidal activity
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial coverage
- Affordable and accessible
- Easy to prepare (can be diluted from 10% stock)
Safety and Practical Use
Safe Use Guidelines:
- Use at 0.5% concentration for oral rinsing
- No significant side effects (taste, mucosa, thyroid) at proper dosage
- Suitable for pre-procedure rinse in dentistry, ENT, and oral surgery
Do NOT use in:
- Patients with iodine allergy
- Pregnant individuals
- People with thyroid disease
- Those on radioactive iodine therapy
Preparation tip:
Dilute 0.5 mL of 10% PVP-I with 9.5 mL of sterile water to achieve 0.5% solution.
Limitations
- In vitro study only – not tested in live patients
- No data on duration of protection after rinse
- Requires daily fresh preparation for stability
Still, the findings strongly support its use as a preprocedural rinse, especially in high-risk clinical settings.
Final Takeaway
PVP-I oral rinse is a powerful, fast, and safe adjunct to PPE—especially in aerosol-generating professions.
At a time when every second counts, a 15-second rinse could be the frontline protection dentistry has been waiting for.
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