Etch-retained porcelain laminate bridges.

The technique of using etch-retained porcelain laminate bridges to restore missing teeth in anterior short-span gaps is described. The advantages and disadvantages that these bridges have in relation to other etch-retained bridges are discussed. Clinical cases are shown to highlight the improved aesthetic results obtained when using these bridges. The ability to choose a labial path of insertion not only gives improved aesthetics but offers the opportunity of treating patients unsuitable for bridges requiring a lingual path of insertion. Although the clinical technique is straightforward it requires a knowledge of basic bridge principles and etched porcelain procedures. The early results are encouraging and as the technology advances hopefully so will the results.