A dentist repairs a broken or cracked tooth based on the severity of the damage, aiming to restore the tooth's function, structure, and appearance. Treatment can range from simple polishing to more extensive procedures like root canals or crowns. 

Common Procedures for a Broken Tooth:

• Dental Bonding (Minor Breaks/Chips): The dentist roughens the enamel, applies a conditioning liquid, and uses a putty-like, tooth-colored composite resin to rebuild the broken area. A special UV light is used to harden the resin, which is then shaped and polished to match the tooth. This is usually completed in one, painless visit.

• Dental Veneers (Front Tooth Damage): A thin, custom-made porcelain or resin shell is placed over the entire front surface of the tooth. This requires removing a small amount of enamel, taking impressions, and bonding the veneer during a second visit.

• Dental Crowns (Moderate to Severe Breaks): If a large part of the tooth is broken, a crown (cap) is used to protect it from further damage and restore its shape. The dentist files down the remaining tooth, takes an impression, and fits a custom-made crown, which often takes two visits, although same-day, computer-milled crowns (CEREC) are available.

• Root Canal Therapy (Damage to the Pulp): If the break exposes the inner pulp (nerve), a root canal is necessary to remove the infected/damaged tissue, clean the area, and seal it to prevent infection. This is usually followed by a crown to strengthen the weakened tooth.

• Tooth Extraction (Severe/Below Gum Line Breaks): If the crack extends below the gum line or the damage is too severe, the tooth cannot be saved and must be removed. The tooth may be replaced with a dental implant, which involves placing a titanium screw into the jawbone to act as a new root.