We consider the role that gauge symmetry breaking terms play on
the continuum limit of gauge theories in three dimensions.
As a paradigmatic example we consider scalar electrodynamics
in which $N_f$ complex scalar fields interact with a U(1) gauge field.
We discuss under which conditions a gauge-symmetry breaking term
destabilizes the critical
behavior (continuum limit) of the gauge-invariant theory. We find that
the gauge symmetry is robust at transitions at which gauge fields
are not critical. At charged transitions, where gauge fields are critical,
gauge symmetry is lost as soon as the perturbation is added.
