Cracked screens are a common problem for smartphone users. Whether you dropped your phone on the pavement or sat on it accidentally, a cracked screen can be frustrating and expensive to repair. But did you know that toothpaste, of all things, can be used to fix a cracked screen? It may sound strange, but toothpaste has been touted as a DIY solution for repairing minor screen cracks. In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind how toothpaste can fix a cracked screen and explore the pros and cons of using this unconventional method.
How Does Toothpaste Fix a Cracked Screen?
To understand how toothpaste can fix a cracked screen, let’s first consider the composition of toothpaste. Most toothpastes contain mild abrasives like silica, calcium carbonate, or baking soda, which help remove plaque and surface stains from teeth. These abrasives are also responsible for polishing and smoothing out the surface of teeth.
When it comes to a cracked screen, the abrasives in toothpaste can help smooth out the rough edges of the crack, making it less noticeable and reducing the risk of further damage. The toothpaste acts as a sort of “filler” that fills in the gap created by the crack, effectively “gluing” the screen together.
But here’s the important part: the toothpaste doesn’t actually “fix” the crack in the sense that it restores the screen to its original, pristine condition. Instead, it provides a temporary solution that can help extend the life of your phone until you can get it properly repaired or replaced.
The Science Behind Toothpaste as a Screen Repair Solution
While toothpaste may seem like an unlikely solution for fixing a cracked screen, its abrasives and polishing properties make it a surprisingly effective tool for DIY repairs. Here’s a breakdown of the science behind how toothpaste works:
Abrasion and Polishing
As mentioned earlier, toothpaste contains mild abrasives that help remove surface imperfections on teeth. When applied to a cracked screen, these abrasives work in a similar way, gently scrubbing away at the rough edges of the crack to smooth out the surface.
The polishing properties of toothpaste also come into play, helping to fill in microscopic scratches and pits on the screen. This can make the crack less noticeable and reduce the risk of further damage.
Adhesion and Filling
Toothpaste contains a range of ingredients that help it stick to teeth, including surfactants and thickeners. When applied to a cracked screen, these ingredients help the toothpaste adhere to the surface, effectively filling in the gap created by the crack.
This adhesion property is key to the success of the toothpaste method, as it allows the toothpaste to form a strong bond with the screen and hold the crack together.
Pros and Cons of Using Toothpaste to Fix a Cracked Screen
While toothpaste can be an effective solution for minor screen cracks, it’s not without its drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- Convenience: Toothpaste is a common household item that’s easily accessible and inexpensive.
- Easy to apply: Applying toothpaste to a cracked screen is a relatively simple process that requires minimal technical expertise.
- Temporary solution: Toothpaste can provide a temporary fix that allows you to continue using your phone until you can get it properly repaired or replaced.
Cons:
- Not a permanent solution: Toothpaste is not a long-term fix and will eventually wear off, leaving your screen vulnerable to further damage.
- Risk of further damage: If not applied carefully, toothpaste can push debris further into the crack, making it worse.
- Aesthetics: Toothpaste can leave a visible residue on the screen, which may be unsightly and affect the overall appearance of your phone.
How to Apply Toothpaste to a Cracked Screen
If you’ve decided to try the toothpaste method, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Materials Needed:
- Toothpaste (preferably a non-abrasive or whitening toothpaste)
- A soft cloth or cotton swab
- A clean, dry workspace
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Clean the screen: Use a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the cracked screen.
- Apply a small amount of toothpaste: Using a cotton swab or soft cloth, apply a small amount of toothpaste to the cracked area. Be careful not to apply too much, as this can create a mess.
- Gently scrub the area: Use the cotton swab or soft cloth to gently scrub the toothpaste into the crack, working in a circular motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can push debris further into the crack.
- Wipe off excess toothpaste: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any excess toothpaste from the screen.
- Repeat as necessary: Depending on the severity of the crack, you may need to repeat the process several times to achieve the desired result.
When to Use Toothpaste to Fix a Cracked Screen
Toothpaste is best suited for minor screen cracks that are shallow and don’t affect the phone’s functionality. If your screen is badly cracked or you’re experiencing issues with the touchscreen or display, it’s recommended that you seek professional repair or replacement.
In general, toothpaste is a good solution for:
- Small, superficial cracks that don’t affect the phone’s functionality
- Cracks that are confined to a small area of the screen
- Cracks that are relatively shallow and don’t penetrate too deeply into the screen
In contrast, toothpaste is not recommended for:
- Deep or extensive cracks that affect the phone’s functionality
- Cracks that penetrate deeply into the screen or affect the display
- Cracks that are accompanied by other damage, such as water damage or corrosion
Conclusion
While toothpaste may seem like an unlikely solution for fixing a cracked screen, its abrasives and polishing properties make it a surprisingly effective tool for DIY repairs. However, it’s essential to understand the limitations of the toothpaste method and recognize when it’s best to seek professional repair or replacement.
Remember, toothpaste is only a temporary solution that can help extend the life of your phone until you can get it properly repaired or replaced. If you’re unsure about the severity of your screen crack or the best course of action, it’s always best to consult a professional for advice.
Can toothpaste really fix a cracked screen?
Toothpaste is not a miracle fix for a cracked screen, but it can help to improve the appearance of the crack. The mild abrasive properties in toothpaste can help to remove minor scratches and scuffs from the screen, making the crack less noticeable. However, it’s essential to note that toothpaste will not repair the underlying damage or fix the crack.
It’s also important to keep in mind that not all toothpastes are created equal, and some may be too abrasive for your screen. Whitening toothpastes, for example, often contain harsh chemicals that can damage the screen’s coating. If you do decide to try using toothpaste to fix your cracked screen, make sure to use a non-whitening, non-abrasive variety.
How do I apply the toothpaste to the cracked screen?
When applying toothpaste to the cracked screen, it’s essential to be gentle and cautious. Start by cleaning the screen with a soft cloth and water to remove any dirt or debris that may be exacerbating the crack. Then, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, apply a small amount of toothpaste to the crack. Gently rub the toothpaste into the crack using circular motions.
Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can cause further damage to the screen. Continue rubbing the toothpaste into the crack until you’ve covered the entire area. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe away the toothpaste and any remaining scratches or scuffs. Repeat the process as needed until the crack is less noticeable.
Will toothpaste damage my phone’s screen coating?
One of the biggest risks of using toothpaste to fix a cracked screen is damaging the screen’s coating. Many phones have a protective coating to prevent scratches and scuffs, and using toothpaste can potentially strip away this coating. However, if you use a non-abrasive toothpaste and apply it gently, the risk of damage is minimized.
To further reduce the risk of damage, make sure to wipe away the toothpaste thoroughly with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any remaining toothpaste and prevent it from sitting on the screen for an extended period. If you’re unsure about using toothpaste on your phone’s screen, it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact a professional repair service.
Is it safe to use toothpaste on all types of screens?
Not all screens are created equal, and toothpaste may not be safe to use on all types of screens. For example, if you have a phone with a glass screen, such as a iPhone, toothpaste is generally safe to use. However, if you have a phone with a plastic or LCD screen, toothpaste may scratch or damage the screen.
It’s also important to note that some screens may have special coatings or treatments that can be damaged by toothpaste. If you’re unsure about the type of screen your phone has or whether it’s safe to use toothpaste, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid using it.
How long does the toothpaste fix last?
The toothpaste fix is not a permanent solution for a cracked screen, and it will not last forever. The duration of the fix will depend on various factors, including the severity of the crack and how well you maintain your phone’s screen. With proper care and maintenance, the toothpaste fix can last for several weeks or even months.
However, over time, the crack may become more noticeable again, and you may need to reapply the toothpaste or seek a more permanent repair solution. It’s also important to keep in mind that the toothpaste fix is purely cosmetic and will not repair the underlying damage to the screen.
Are there any alternative methods to fix a cracked screen?
Yes, there are several alternative methods to fix a cracked screen, including professional repair services, DIY repair kits, and screen protectors. Professional repair services can provide a more permanent fix for a cracked screen, and many offer warranties and guarantees for their work.
DIY repair kits can also be an effective way to fix a cracked screen, but they often require more technical expertise and may void your phone’s warranty. Screen protectors can help to prevent cracks and scratches from occurring in the first place, and they can be applied to a cracked screen to provide additional protection.
Is it better to replace my phone instead of fixing the cracked screen?
If your phone’s screen is severely cracked or damaged, it may be better to replace the phone altogether. A cracked screen can be a safety hazard, as it can cause the screen to shatter or break further, potentially causing injury. Additionally, a cracked screen can also be a sign of more underlying damage to the phone’s internal components.
If your phone is still under warranty, it may be worth contacting the manufacturer or a authorized repair service to see if you can get it replaced or repaired for free. Even if your phone is no longer under warranty, it may be more cost-effective to replace it instead of spending money on repeated repairs.