Chipped front tooth 4 years ago. The enamel is weak and the corner is about to break off. No pain. Options? (Photo)

Hi Juliet !  I would think you would need an x ray and a check on your bite first to see why the tooth cracked .  If there is no pain and no infection, there is no reason to have a root canal.  I would try crown placement and see if this does not make this tooth stable. If the crack is not large, I would suggest using a less invasive method such as bonding the tooth.  If the bonding breaks, then you need to go to a crown. The bonding is the least expensive as well.

I would advise you to go see your general dentist for repair of the fractured segment with a tooth colored restoration.

The only reason to suggest a root canal is if the tooth has abscessed. If the tooth hasn't abscessed a simple crown is all that is needed. If you have concerns about the treatment suggested a second opinion is an option.

Hi there,It's not possible to evaluate whether the tooth needs a root canal or not based on the photograph. The number one question is how and why the tooth cracked to begin with. An xray and clinical exam can give you the best options for treatment. There are a number of ways to correct a cracked tooth-bonded white filling material, a veneer, a crown...it depends on the location and severity of the break. If you don't feel comfortable with the recommendation of the dentist you saw, I would suggest a second opinion. Best of luck!