What is the recommended action for a broken coronal portion of a canine?

The recommended action for a broken coronal portion of a canine is to undertake conservative endodontic treatment and prepare for a post and core. This approach is appropriate because, in cases where the coronal portion of the tooth is compromised but the root structure remains intact and healthy, it allows for the preservation of the tooth. The conservative endodontic treatment focuses on cleaning and shaping the canal to remove any pulp tissue and prevent infection.

Following the endodontic procedure, a post and core can be placed to provide support for the final restoration, usually a crown. This reconstruction method strengthens the structural integrity of the tooth and can restore function and aesthetics, making it preferable to extraction or leaving the tooth untreated.

Extraction would be necessary only if the tooth's root was also compromised or there were severe underlying issues, while restoring it with a crown without endodontic treatment could lead to complications if the pulp is affected. Leaving the tooth untreated runs the risk of further decay and infection, which would jeopardize not only the affected tooth but also the overall dental health.