Could a simple swab of povidone iodine stop childhood cavities?
NCT ID NCT07741409
First seen Aug 03, 2026 · Last updated Aug 04, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial tests whether swabbing toddlers' teeth with povidone iodine can prevent tooth decay and reduce cavity-causing mouth germs. Children aged 1 to 3 will have their teeth swabbed weekly for the first month and then monthly, with some also receiving a daily probiotic. The study compares these approaches against a placebo to see if the iodine reduces new cavities and changes the mouth's microbiome.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Povidone iodine 5% solution applied to teeth, with or without a probiotic supplement
- What this could lead to
- If effective, this could offer a simple, at-home way to reduce tooth decay in young children and lower the need for dental procedures.
- What could go wrong
- This is a phase 3 trial, but results may vary. The intervention requires consistent home application, and the probiotic's added benefit is uncertain. Povidone iodine may not be suitable for children with thyroid conditions.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University of Iowa College of Dentistry
Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States
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