Can povidone-iodine be used for gargling?

Jan 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, povidone-iodine should not be used for mouth rinsing. If povidone-iodine is needed, it should be used according to medical instructions. Povidone-iodine is a disinfectant primarily used for disinfecting the skin and surgical instruments; its components can be irritating to oral mucosa. Using povidone-iodine for mouth rinsing may irritate the oral mucosa, causing discomfort such as pain, and may even lead to imbalance of the oral microbial flora.

Generally speaking, povidone-iodine should not be used for mouth rinsing. If povidone-iodine is needed, it should be used under medical guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Povidone-iodine is a disinfectant primarily used for disinfecting the skin and surgical instruments. Its components may irritate oral mucosa. Using povidone-iodine for mouth rinsing may irritate the oral mucosa, causing discomfort such as pain, and may even lead to dysbacteriosis of the oral flora. Additionally, long-term use of povidone-iodine for mouth rinsing may erode oral tissues such as the gums or inner walls of the mouth, causing further damage.

Povidone-iodine is not a common ingredient in mouthwash. Common mouthwash ingredients include chlorhexidine, benzalkonium chloride, and cetylpyridinium chloride, which can effectively clean the mouth and reduce bacterial levels. Povidone-iodine is mainly used for disinfection of minor wounds. For individuals with existing oral mucosal damage or ulcers, using povidone-iodine for mouth rinsing may intensify pain and hinder the healing of oral mucosa.

When using povidone-iodine, attention should be paid to its concentration and dosage. Long-term or excessive use should be avoided to prevent unnecessary harm to the body.

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