Australian Dental Council (ADC) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The self-tapping threaded pin is considered the most retentive type of dental pin system because of its design that allows it to engage the surrounding dentin deeply and securely. This type of pin is threaded, which means it can create a mechanical interlock with the tooth structure as it is inserted. The threads increase surface area contact and friction, securing the pin in place without relying solely on adhesive properties, which is a significant advantage for retention.

When comparing this to the other types of pins, the cemented pin relies on the strength of the bonding agent to maintain retention, which can be variable depending on the technique and materials used. The friction peak pin, although designed for retention based on mechanical interference, lacks the additional stability that comes from threading. The drilled pin involves creating a hole in the tooth, but the method may not provide the same level of bite and anchorage as a self-tapping pin that engages more fully with the tooth structure upon insertion.

Overall, self-tapping threaded pins represent the apex of retention in dental pin systems due to their ability to mechanically anchor within the tooth structure, ensuring greater stability for subsequent restorative procedures.