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How to remove Superglue from the mouth: case report
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, St Lukes Hospital, Little Horton Lane, Bradford BD5 0NA, UK. rnarend@tiscali.co.uk
The British Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
|December 29, 2004
Summary
A child accidentally ingested cyanoacrylate glue, causing lip and teeth adhesion. Margarine effectively dissolved the adhesive, safely freeing the child's oral structures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Toxicology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Cyanoacrylate adhesives, commonly known as Super Glue, are frequently found in households.
- Accidental ingestion or topical exposure in young children can lead to significant adhesion of soft tissues.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old boy presented with his lips and upper teeth adhered due to Super Glue ingestion.
- The incident occurred after the child bit on a tube of glue found on the floor.
Findings:
- Margarine was applied topically to the adhered tissues.
- The oily nature of margarine effectively dissolved the cyanoacrylate polymer, enabling separation of the lips and teeth.
Implications:
- This case highlights a simple, readily available household remedy for cyanoacrylate-induced adhesion in children.
- It underscores the importance of safe storage of cyanoacrylate adhesives away from young children.
- Margarine offers a safe and effective alternative to more invasive removal methods for minor cyanoacrylate exposures.