How a Pin or Post Can Help Fix Your Teeth
Posted on 9/1/2026 by Dr. Ashley Saulsberry |
 Sometimes, teeth need a little extra help to stay strong after they've been damaged. Think of it like reinforcing a building – you need a solid foundation to build upon! That's where pins and posts come in. They're like tiny anchors that help support fillings or crowns, especially when a large portion of the natural tooth is missing.
What are Pins and Posts?
Imagine your tooth has a big cavity, and a large part of it needs to be removed. After the dentist cleans out the decay, there might not be enough healthy tooth structure left to hold a filling securely. This is where pins come in. These tiny, metal or composite pins are placed into the tooth to help hold the filling material in place. They’re like little nails that grip the filling material and keep it from falling out.
Posts, on the other hand, are usually used when a tooth has had root canal therapy. Root canal therapy removes the pulp (the nerve and blood supply) from the inside of the tooth. While this saves the tooth, it can also make it more brittle. A post is placed inside the root canal to provide support for a crown. The post extends into the root and provides a strong base for the crown to attach to, giving the tooth a better chance of long-term survival.
Why are Pins and Posts Needed?
The primary reason for using pins or posts is to provide extra retention and support for a dental restoration. Without them, a large filling or crown might be more likely to break, fall out, or leak around the edges. This leakage can lead to further decay and potential problems down the road. They also help to distribute biting forces more evenly across the tooth, which can reduce the risk of fracture.
The Procedure
Getting a pin or post placed is usually a relatively straightforward procedure.
| • |
Pins: The dentist will numb the area around the tooth, prepare the tooth by removing any decay, and then carefully insert the pins into the tooth structure. The filling material is then placed around the pins, creating a strong and stable restoration. |
| • |
Posts: If a post is needed after a root canal, the dentist will prepare the root canal space to receive the post. A post will then be cemented into place. An impression is taken, and a crown is fabricated to fit over the post and the remaining tooth structure. |
Taking Care of Teeth with Pins or Posts
Even with pins and posts, good oral care is still essential. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular check-ups are crucial for maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. While pins and posts add strength, they don't make the tooth immune to decay or gum disease. Proper oral hygiene helps to protect the tooth and the surrounding tissues, ensuring the longevity of the restoration.
Pins, Posts and Restoration Dentistry
Pins and posts are valuable tools in restoration dentistry. They allow dentists to fix teeth that would otherwise be too damaged to restore with fillings or crowns alone. By providing added support and retention, they can help save teeth and improve your overall oral health. They are not appropriate for every situation, but when needed, they can make a significant difference in the long-term success of a restoration. By understanding how pins and posts work, you can appreciate the importance of these tiny but mighty components in keeping your smile healthy and strong. |
|
