What is the major disadvantage of self-threaded pins in dental procedures?

The major disadvantage of self-threaded pins in dental procedures is that they may cause tooth cracking. The process of inserting self-threaded pins requires the application of significant mechanical force to create threads in the tooth structure. This force can place stress on the surrounding enamel and dentin, leading to micro-fractures or even significant cracking in the tooth. Such damage can compromise the integrity of the tooth, potentially necessitating further restorative work or even tooth extraction if the damage is severe.

While self-threaded pins do have advantages, such as providing good retention within a dental restoration, the risk of causing structural damage through cracking is a critical consideration that dental professionals must evaluate when choosing their tools and techniques. Other options, such as costs or availability of sizes, may be relevant factors in specific contexts but do not capture the immediate clinical risks associated with the use of self-threaded pins as effectively as the potential for tooth cracking does.