A broken tooth requires professional dental attention. While the idea of using household adhesives like superglue might seem like a quick fix, materials not designed for medical or dental use introduce significant risks in the oral environment.
Risks of Using Superglue
Applying superglue to a broken tooth carries several dangers to oral health. The ingredient in superglue, cyanoacrylate, polymerizes on contact with moisture, which is abundant in the mouth. This reaction can generate heat, potentially causing thermal damage to the tooth’s inner structures and surrounding gum tissue. Chemical irritation or burns to the soft tissues of the gums, tongue, and cheeks can occur.
Additionally, there is a risk of allergic reactions to chemicals in superglue. Ingesting small amounts can lead to stomach upset, and some formulations may contain toxic ingredients like methanol or degrade to produce formaldehyde. Superglue can also trap bacteria within the fracture, fostering infection. This can lead to complications like abscesses and further damage, potentially making subsequent professional treatment more complex.
Why Superglue is Not a Dental Solution
Superglue is fundamentally unsuitable for dental repair due to its material properties and the dynamic conditions within the mouth. Unlike dental-grade adhesives, superglue lacks biocompatibility, meaning it is not designed to safely interact with living tissues. While medical-grade cyanoacrylates exist for specific surgical applications, general-purpose superglue is not formulated for human use.
The oral cavity is a moist environment, and superglue’s bond weakens when exposed to moisture and chewing forces. Any fix would be temporary and prone to failure. It does not bond securely to tooth enamel to withstand daily biting and chewing. Its non-sterile nature introduces bacteria, promoting decay and infection.
Professional Dental Treatment Options
When a tooth breaks, consult a dentist immediately to assess damage and prevent complications. The dentist evaluates the fracture, often using X-rays, to determine if the pulp is affected. Various treatments restore function and appearance.
For minor chips or cracks, dental bonding is an effective solution. This involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the damaged area, shaped and hardened with a special light to blend seamlessly with the natural tooth.
If the damage is more extensive, veneers or crowns may be recommended. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells, typically porcelain or composite resin, that cover the front surface of the tooth. Crowns are caps that cover the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength.
If the fracture extends to the tooth’s pulp, root canal therapy might be necessary to remove infected tissue and save the tooth, often followed by a crown for protection. If a tooth cannot be saved, extraction followed by replacement options like dental implants or bridges may be considered to maintain oral health and function.