Which pin system is considered the most retentive for dental applications?

The self-tapping threaded pin is widely regarded as the most retentive option for dental applications due to its design and functionality. These pins feature threads that allow them to engage with the surrounding dentin more effectively than other types, providing enhanced mechanical retention. When a self-tapping pin is inserted into the prepared site in the tooth structure, the threads cut into the dentin, creating a tight fit that resists movement and enhances stability.

This retention is crucial in dental procedures where pins are used to support restorative materials or to reinforce weakened tooth structures. The ability of a self-tapping pin to achieve better engagement with the tooth helps to distribute forces evenly and minimizes the risk of failure in clinical situations.

In contrast, other pins, like cemented pins or non-threaded pins, rely on adhesive or frictional forces rather than a threaded engagement with the tooth structure. While they may serve their purpose in certain situations, they do not provide the same level of mechanical retention as the self-tapping threaded pin. Similarly, friction peak pins may have their benefits but are not as effective as self-tapping pins when it comes to robust retention.