Root Canal for Broken Tooth?

Root canals on broken teeth are necessary if the fracture is extensive enough that the pulp is exposed.  Other indications for a root canal include deep decay and resorption.  If the dentist has confirmed through examination and pulp tests that the root system is vital and healthy, then a root canal is not necessary and should not be performed.  Once a root canal is done, the blood and nutrient supply of the tooth are depleted, causing the tooth to become brittle and weak.  As the saying goes, "Don't fix something that isn't broken."  Thank you, Dr. Elizabeth Jahanian.

Unless your tooth starts to turn dark or develops sensitivity to thermal changes, a veneer is probably a fine alternative.  If it is possible to avoid a root canal I certainly would.  There is no need to perform an elective procedure in this situation when it could still be accomplished in the future if necessary often times with no detrimental effects to the veneer.

I would fully trust your dentist about not having a root canal.  If the tooth nerve is healthy after the fracture, then the veneer is a perfect restoration.  The negatives to a root canal is the tooth will become more brittle over time, the tooth will slowly darken, and the root canal can even fail.  All of these are bad consequenses. 

I would strongly recommend you not getting a root canal as a preventive measure.  Best of luck!