Reinforcement of bonded crown fractured incisors with porcelain veneers

A method is described by which porcelain laminate veneers are used to reinforce crown-fractured incisors which have been restored by reattachment of enamel-dentin fragments using enamel etching and a dentin bonding system. In an experimental model using sheep incisors, it was found that fracture strength equal to that of intact incisors could be achieved by employing this method. This is in contrast to fracture strengths of reattached enamel-dentin tooth fragments without porcelain laminates which were only 50% of intact incisors. It is suggested that porcelain laminate veneers may be used to supplement fragment bonding, thereby enhancing dental esthetics and function.