Using superglue to repair a damaged tooth is highly inadvisable and can lead to significant health complications. While it might seem like a quick fix for a chipped, broken, or dislodged tooth, household adhesives are not designed for oral use. Attempting such a repair can worsen the initial problem and create new, more serious issues that will require professional dental intervention.
Why Superglue is Not a Solution
Superglue, primarily composed of cyanoacrylate, is a chemical substance. When this adhesive comes into contact with the moisture present in the mouth, it undergoes a rapid polymerization process, causing it to solidify quickly. This reaction can generate heat, potentially causing thermal injuries to sensitive oral tissues. Furthermore, the hardened glue can cause irritation, chemical burns, or allergic reactions.
Superglue is not a sterile product. Introducing it into the oral cavity can introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. The bond created by superglue is also temporary and ineffective in the wet, dynamic environment of the mouth, where saliva and chewing forces quickly degrade it. This temporary bond can trap bacteria between the tooth fragment and the remaining tooth structure, accelerating decay or leading to deeper infections.
Using superglue can also complicate future professional dental treatments. The adhesive can damage the tooth’s enamel and dentin, or even penetrate the dentinal tubules, potentially causing necrosis of the tooth pulp. This can make it more challenging, or even impossible, for a dentist to perform a lasting repair, potentially necessitating more extensive procedures like root canal treatment or extraction.
Immediate Steps for Dental Emergencies
When faced with a dental emergency, such as a chipped, broken, or knocked-out tooth, or a lost crown or filling, immediate action can influence the outcome. If a tooth is chipped or broken, begin by rinsing your mouth gently with warm water. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and pain. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad until it stops.
For a knocked-out permanent tooth, handle it only by the crown, avoiding the root. If dirty, gently rinse it with water, but do not scrub or dry it. The best chance for saving the tooth is to reinsert it into its socket as soon as possible. If reinsertion is not possible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk, saline solution, or even inside your cheek (for adults) until you reach a dentist. Baby teeth should not be reinserted as it could damage the developing adult tooth underneath.
If a dental crown or filling comes loose, try to retrieve it. Clean both the crown and the affected tooth gently. You can temporarily reattach a crown using over-the-counter dental cement, denture adhesive, or even toothpaste or sugar-free gum to hold it in place. This is a temporary measure designed to protect the tooth from sensitivity and further damage until you can see a dental professional. In all dental emergencies, contacting a dentist immediately is important.
Professional Dental Solutions
Professional dental solutions are designed to safely and effectively address various dental injuries. For a chipped or broken tooth, a dentist will first assess the extent of the damage. Minor chips can frequently be repaired with dental bonding, which involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin that is shaped and hardened with a special light to blend seamlessly with the natural tooth. This procedure is typically completed in a single visit.
For larger chips or significant tooth damage, a dental crown may be recommended. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth, providing protection and restoring its shape and strength. Crowns are made from various materials, including porcelain, and are matched to the color of your surrounding teeth. In cases where the damage extends to the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected tissue, followed by a crown to protect the treated tooth.
When a tooth is knocked out, a dentist will attempt to reinsert it into the socket, especially if the patient sought prompt care. The tooth may then be stabilized using a splint, which temporarily connects it to adjacent teeth. If a knocked-out tooth cannot be saved, or in cases of severe damage, dentists offer replacement options such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures. These professional treatments are tailored to the individual’s specific needs, ensuring durable, safe, and aesthetic outcomes that household adhesives cannot provide.