What is the purpose of retention pins in a core buildup?

Retention pins serve the essential purpose of providing additional strength in a core buildup. When a tooth has undergone significant loss of structure, usually due to decay or prior restorations, a core buildup is necessary to restore the tooth's shape and function before placing a crown.

The addition of retention pins assists in anchoring the buildup material securely to the remaining tooth structure, allowing for a more stable base for subsequent restorations. This is particularly important as the buildup material needs to withstand the functional forces encountered during chewing and prevent dislodgement.

A primary goal of placing these pins is to ensure the core buildup can effectively support the restoration long-term, making the tooth less likely to fracture or fail. Retention pins enhance the strength and durability of the core buildup, enabling the tooth to endure the demands of oral function effectively.