Top 10 Retention Pins for Dentin Placement in Restorative Dentistry

-- Dental Country Editors

Mainstay™-Dowel-Pin-System

Table 1: Comparison of Digits and Numbers for Top 10 Pins Restorative

Item NameType of PinsMaterialQuantity per PackColor-coded Kodex Drills
Stabilok Dentin PinsHandpiece driven, self-shearingNot specifiedNot specifiedNot applicable
Filpin Restorative SystemSelf-shearing retention pinsPure titaniumNot specifiedNot applicable
TMS Link Plus Self-Threading PinsSelf-threading parapulpal pinsNot specifiedNot specifiedColor-coded
Max Restorative PinsSelf-threading parapulpal pinsTitanium alloy50Color-coded
TMS Link Series Self-Threading PinsSelf-threading parapulpal pinsAlpha-beta titanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steelNot specifiedColor-coded
TMS Thread Mate SystemSelf-threading pinsGold-plated stainless steelNot specifiedNot applicable
Bondent Dentin Bonding PinsSelf-threading pin systemTitanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steelNot specifiedNot applicable
TMS Link Plus Single Shear Self-Threading PinsSelf-threading parapulpal pinsNot specified50Color-coded
BI-V-PIN with Plastic SleeveNarrow model with two dowel pinsNot specifiedNot specifiedNot applicable
Filpin Restorative System Hand Ratchet SeriesSelf-shearing retention pinsPure titaniumNot specifiedNot applicable

Table 2: Comparison of Features for Top 10 Pins Restorative

Item NameSpecial FeaturesHygienic PackagingDrilling RequiredShoulder StopManual and Mechanical Placement
Stabilok Dentin PinsExtra retention in dentinYes, with individual compartmentsNoNot specifiedNot applicable
Filpin Restorative System47° thread form crushes and displaces less dentin and causes less crazingNot specifiedYesNot specifiedAutomatic and manual placement
TMS Link Plus Self-Threading PinsPins and KODEX Drills are color coordinatedNot specifiedNot specifiedYesManual and mechanical placement
Max Restorative PinsRounded heads for good adaptation and self-alignment during placementNot specifiedYesYesNot applicable
TMS Link Series Self-Threading PinsSmooth self-alignment during placementNot specifiedNot specifiedShoulder stopNot applicable
TMS Thread Mate SystemGold-plated stainless steel pins can be placed manually with a hand wrench or mechanically with a reduction gear contra angleNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedManual and mechanical placement
Bondent Dentin Bonding PinsFor the retention of composite restorations and build-up techniquesNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedNot applicable
TMS Link Plus Single Shear Self-Threading PinsPins and Kodex Drills are color-coordinatedNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedManual and mechanical placement
BI-V-PIN with Plastic SleeveIdeal for positioning in a limited space V-shaped profile and suitable for use with close standing dies such as lower anteriorsYes, open-ended sleeve prevents clogging and simplifies cleaningYesNot specifiedNot applicable
Filpin Restorative System Hand Ratchet Series47° thread form crushes and displaces less dentin and causes less crazingNot specifiedYesNot specifiedManual placement

1. Stabilok Dentin Pins, Standard Kit – Fairfax Dental Inc

Stabilok dentin pins, standard kit - fairfax dental inc

Product Description

Stabilok Dentin Pins by Fairfax Dental Inc. are precision-engineered, handpiece-driven, self-shearing pins designed to provide reliable retention in dentin for core build-ups using amalgam, composite, or other restorative materials. The wide-pitch thread design ensures secure anchorage, enhancing the stability of restorations.

Product Overview

These pins are compatible with standard contra-angle handpieces without the need for speed reduction. The self-shearing feature allows the pin to separate at the shearing neck with total reliability during placement. Each pin is individually packaged in a sterile compartment, ensuring hygienic handling and convenience.

Key Features

  • Handpiece-driven, self-shearing design for reliable placement
  • Wide-pitch thread provides excellent retention in dentin
  • Compatible with standard contra-angle handpieces; no speed reduction required
  • Individually packaged for hygiene and ease of use
  • Available in stainless steel and titanium
  • Offered in two diameters: 0.021″ (small) and 0.027″ (medium)
  • Color-coded for easy identification:
    • Yellow: 0.021″ Titanium
    • Blue: 0.021″ Stainless Steel
    • Orange: 0.027″ Titanium
    • Green: 0.027″ Stainless Steel

Common Applications

  • Core build-ups with amalgam or composite materials
  • Restorations requiring additional retention in dentin
  • Situations where enhanced stability of the restoration is desired
  • Use in both anterior and posterior teeth

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Stabilok Dentin Pins, Standard Kit
Brand: Fairfax Dental Inc.
Material: Stainless Steel or Titanium
Diameter Options: 0.021″ (small), 0.027″ (medium)
Color Coding: Yellow (0.021″ Titanium), Blue (0.021″ Stainless Steel), Orange (0.027″ Titanium), Green (0.027″ Stainless Steel)
Application Method: Handpiece-driven, self-shearing
Packaging: 20 pins and 1 drill per kit
Country of Origin: United Kingdom

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

  • “Reliable and easy to use; provides excellent retention.”
  • “Color-coded system simplifies identification during procedures.”
  • “Self-shearing feature works flawlessly, saving chair time.”
  • “Individually packaged pins ensure sterility and convenience.”

2. Filpin™ Restorative System – Retention Pin Refill

Filpin™ restorative system – retention pin refill, standard package - southeast medical products

Product Description

Filpin™ Restorative System is a dentin retention solution engineered for strength, precision, and patient safety. Crafted from 99.8% pure titanium, these self-shearing pins are designed for both automatic and manual placement. The unique 47° thread form minimizes dentin displacement and reduces the risk of crazing, ensuring secure anchorage for core build-ups and restorations.

Product Overview

Filpin pins feature a self-threading, self-aligning shaft that simplifies placement and enhances stability. The pins shear precisely at a 2mm depth, eliminating guesswork and ensuring consistent results. Available in two diameters—0.60 mm (Universal) and 0.76 mm (Large)—each refill pack includes 35 pins and one universal twist drill. The system is compatible with both handpiece-driven and manual insertion techniques, offering versatility for various clinical scenarios.

Key Features

  • 99.8% pure titanium construction for biocompatibility and corrosion resistance
  • Self-shearing design ensures precise 2mm depth placement
  • 47° thread form reduces dentin stress and minimizes crazing
  • Suitable for both automatic (handpiece) and manual placement
  • Self-threading, self-aligning shaft for ease of insertion
  • Pins can be bent post-insertion without compromising integrity
  • Available in two sizes:
    • Universal (0.60 mm / 0.021″) – Red
    • Large (0.76 mm / 0.027″) – Black

Common Applications

  • Core build-ups with amalgam or composite materials
  • Retention enhancement in dentin for various restorations
  • Stabilization of MOD cavities through cross-pinning
  • Prevention of restoration rotation when using a single post
  • Situations requiring precise and reliable pin placement

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Filpin™ Restorative System – Retention Pin Refill
Brand: Filhol Dental
Material: 99.8% Pure Titanium
Thread Angle: 47°
Self-Shearing Depth: 2 mm
Placement Methods: Automatic (handpiece) and manual
Available Sizes:

  • Universal: 0.60 mm (0.021″) – Red
  • Large: 0.76 mm (0.027″) – Black
    Package Contents: 35 pins and 1 universal twist drill
    Country of Origin: United Kingdom

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

  • Exceptional retention with minimal dentin stress.
  • Easy to place, and the self-shearing feature ensures consistency.
  • Versatile for both manual and handpiece applications.
  • Reduces the risk of crazing compared to other pins.

Tms® link plus® self-threading pins, minim® double shear kits - coltene

Product Description

TMS® Link Plus® Self-Threading Pins by Coltene are advanced parapulpal retention pins designed to enhance the stability and longevity of dental restorations. These pins feature a self-threading design with a unique ball joint link to the shank, allowing for smooth self-alignment during insertion. The tapered pin end and shoulder stop facilitate easier placement and reduce apical stress, ensuring optimal retention with minimal dentin displacement.

Product Overview

Available in various sizes and shear designs, TMS® Link Plus® pins cater to a wide range of restorative needs. The system includes color-coded KODEX® drills that correspond to specific pin sizes, streamlining the selection process and ensuring precise canal preparation. The pins can be inserted manually or mechanically, offering flexibility in clinical application.

Key Features

  • Self-threading design for secure dentin retention
  • Ball joint link to shank for smooth self-alignment
  • Tapered pin end and shoulder stop for controlled insertion
  • Wide buttress thread design for optimal retention
  • Defined shear points for consistent pin placement
  • Color-coded KODEX® drills for easy identification
  • Available in gold-plated stainless steel or titanium alloy
  • Offered in single shear and double shear configurations

Common Applications

  • Core build-ups requiring enhanced retention
  • Stabilization of restorations in vital and non-vital teeth
  • Situations necessitating precise and reliable pin placement
  • Use in both anterior and posterior restorations

Technical Specifications

  • Product Name: TMS® Link Plus® Self-Threading Pins
  • Brand: Coltene
  • Material Options: Gold-Plated Stainless Steel, Titanium Alloy
  • Available Sizes:
    • Minuta: 0.0135″ (0.350 mm)
    • Minikin: 0.017″ (0.425 mm)
    • Minim: 0.021″ (0.525 mm)
    • Regular: 0.027″ (0.675 mm)
  • Shear Designs: Single Shear, Double Shear (2-in-1)
  • Color Coding:
    • Minuta: Pink
    • Minikin: Red
    • Minim: Silver
    • Regular: Gold
  • Packaging Options:
    • Complete Kits: 20 pins, 1 or 2 KODEX® drills, 1 universal hand driver
    • Bulk Kits: 50 pins
  • Country of Origin: Switzerland

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

  • The self-aligning feature simplifies placement and ensures accuracy.
  • Color-coded drills make the process efficient and error-free.
  • Provides excellent retention with minimal dentin stress.
  • Versatile options accommodate various clinical scenarios.

4. Max® Restorative Pins by Coltene

Max® restorative pins – bulk packs, 50/pkg - coltene

Product Description

Max® Restorative Pins by Coltene are self-threading parapulpal retention pins designed for optimal adaptation and self-alignment during placement. Crafted from corrosion-free titanium alloy, these pins feature shoulder stops and rounded heads to facilitate precise and secure insertion into dentin, enhancing the stability of core build-ups and restorations.

Product Overview

Available in two color-coded sizes—0.017″ (blue) and 0.021″ (purple)—Max® Restorative Pins are engineered for both manual and mechanical placement. The design ensures minimal dentin stress while providing reliable retention. Each complete kit includes 20 pins, 2 depth-limiting drills, and a universal hand driver, offering a comprehensive solution for restorative procedures.

Key Features

  • Self-threading design for secure dentin retention
  • Shoulder stops and rounded heads for controlled insertion
  • Corrosion-free titanium alloy construction
  • Color-coded sizes for easy identification:
    • Blue: 0.017″ (0.425 mm)
    • Purple: 0.021″ (0.525 mm)
  • Suitable for manual and mechanical placement
  • Depth-limiting drills included in complete kits

Common Applications

  • Core build-ups requiring enhanced retention
  • Stabilization of restorations in vital and non-vital teeth
  • Situations necessitating precise and reliable pin placement
  • Use in both anterior and posterior restorations

Technical Specifications

  • Product Name: Max® Restorative Pins
  • Brand: Coltene
  • Material: Titanium alloy
  • Available Sizes:
    • 0.017″ (0.425 mm) – Blue
    • 0.021″ (0.525 mm) – Purple
  • Packaging Options:
    • Complete Kit: 20 pins, 2 depth-limiting drills, 1 universal hand driver
    • Bulk Kit: 50 pins
  • Country of Origin: Switzerland

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

  • Reliable and easy to use; provides excellent retention.
  • Color-coded system simplifies identification during procedures.
  • Self-threading feature works flawlessly, saving chair time.
  • High-quality construction ensures long-term durability.

Tms® link series® self-threading pins – minikin single shear kits, gold-plated stainless steel - coltene

Product Description

TMS® Link Series® Self-Threading Pins by Coltene are advanced parapulpal retention pins designed to enhance the stability and longevity of dental restorations. These self-threading pins feature a ball joint link to the shank, allowing for smooth self-alignment during insertion. The tapered pin end and shoulder stop facilitate easier placement and reduce apical stress, ensuring optimal retention with minimal dentin displacement.

Product Overview

Crafted from either alpha-beta titanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steel, TMS® Link Series® pins are corrosion-resistant and biocompatible. Available in various sizes and shear designs, they cater to a wide range of restorative needs. The system includes color-coded KODEX® drills that correspond to specific pin sizes, streamlining the selection process and ensuring precise canal preparation. The pins can be inserted manually or mechanically, offering flexibility in clinical application.

Key Features

  • Self-threading design for secure dentin retention
  • Ball joint link to shank for smooth self-alignment
  • Tapered pin end and shoulder stop for controlled insertion
  • Wide buttress thread design for optimal retention
  • Defined shear points for consistent pin placement
  • Color-coded KODEX® drills for easy identification
  • Available in gold-plated stainless steel or titanium alloy
  • Offered in single shear and double shear configurations

Common Applications

  • Core build-ups requiring enhanced retention
  • Stabilization of restorations in vital and non-vital teeth
  • Situations necessitating precise and reliable pin placement
  • Use in both anterior and posterior restorations

Technical Specification

  • Product Name: TMS® Link Series® Self-Threading Pins
  • Brand: Coltene
  • Material Options: Gold-Plated Stainless Steel, Titanium Alloy
  • Available Sizes:
    • Minuta: 0.350 mm (0.0135″) – Pink
    • Minikin: 0.425 mm (0.017″) – Red
    • Minim: 0.525 mm (0.021″) – Silver
    • Regular: 0.675 mm (0.027″) – Gold
  • Shear Designs: Single Shear, Double Shear (2-in-1)
  • Color Coding:
    • Minuta: Pink
    • Minikin: Red
    • Minim: Silver
    • Regular: Gold
  • Packaging Options:
    • Complete Kits: 20 pins, 1 or 2 KODEX® drills, 1 universal hand driver
    • Bulk Kits: 50 pins
  • Country of Origin: Switzerland

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

  • The self-aligning feature simplifies placement and ensures accuracy.
  • Color-coded drills make the process efficient and error-free.
  • Provides excellent retention with minimal dentin stress.
  • Versatile options accommodate various clinical scenarios.

6. TMS® Thread Mate System® Minim Kits – Coltene

Tms® thread mate system® minim kits - coltene

Product Description

TMS® Thread Mate System® Minim Kits by Coltene feature a self-threading pin system designed to enhance retention in dental restorations. These pins are made of gold-plated stainless steel and are engineered for precise parapulpal placement, supporting a wide range of restorative procedures.

Product Overview

The Minim pins can be inserted either manually using a hand wrench or mechanically with a reduction gear contra angle, offering clinical flexibility. Designed for use in vital and non-vital teeth, the pins deliver excellent adaptation and controlled insertion, reducing dentin stress while improving restoration retention.

Key Features

Self-threading design for secure dentin engagement
Gold-plated stainless steel for strength and corrosion resistance
Manual or mechanical placement options
Shoulder stop for accurate depth control
Designed for parapulpal retention
Compatible with reduction gear contra angles
Reliable performance in a range of restorative cases

Common Applications

Core build-ups with composite or amalgam
Retention enhancement in compromised tooth structure
Anterior and posterior restorations
Use in both vital and non-vital teeth
Manual or mechanical pin placement procedures

Technical Specifications

Product Name: TMS® Thread Mate System® Minim Kits
Brand: Coltene
Material: Gold-plated stainless steel
Pin Size: Minim (0.021″)
Placement Method: Manual (hand wrench) or mechanical (reduction gear contra angle)
Shear Design: Single or double shear (kit dependent)
Package Quantity: 20 pins, Kodex® drill, hand wrench (varies by kit)
Country of Origin: Switzerland

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

Easy to place with both hand and mechanical tools
Gold-plated finish ensures corrosion resistance
Provides stable retention in restorations
Smooth threading with minimal dentin trauma


7. Bondent® Dentin Bonding Pins by Coltene

Bondent® dentin bonding pins, bulk kits - coltene

Product Description

Bondent® Dentin Bonding Pins by Coltene are self-threading parapulpal pins designed to provide reliable retention for composite restorations and build-up procedures. Engineered for strength and precision, these pins are available in titanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steel, offering biocompatibility and corrosion resistance.

Product Overview

With a consistent diameter of 0.017″ (0.425 mm), Bondent® pins are available in two head lengths—2.5 mm (long) and 2.0 mm (short)—for procedural flexibility. Color-coded for easy identification, the yellow (long) and blue (short) pins support efficient workflow and secure placement in both anterior and posterior restorations.

Key Features

Self-threading design for reliable retention
Available in titanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steel
Two head sizes: Long (2.5 mm, yellow) and Short (2.0 mm, blue)
0.017″ (0.425 mm) pin diameter
Color-coded for easy selection
Biocompatible and corrosion-resistant materials
Designed specifically for composite build-ups and restorations

Common Applications

Retention for composite core build-ups
Stabilization of restorations in vital or non-vital teeth
Use in anterior and posterior restorations
Cases requiring compact and reliable pin retention
Precision placement in minimally invasive procedures

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Bondent® Dentin Bonding Pins
Brand: Coltene
Material: Titanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steel
Pin Diameter: 0.017″ (0.425 mm)
Head Sizes: Long (2.5 mm, yellow), Short (2.0 mm, blue)
Placement Method: Manual or mechanical (tool compatibility varies)
Package Quantity: Varies by kit (typically includes pins and insertion tools)
Country of Origin: Switzerland

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

Color-coding simplifies clinical use
Strong retention with minimal dentin stress
Ideal for precise composite build-ups
Consistent sizing ensures predictable performance


Tms® link plus® single shear self-threading pins, 50/pkg - coltene

Product Description

TMS® Link Plus® Single Shear Self-Threading Pins are precision-engineered parapulpal pins designed to enhance retention in dental restorations. Featuring a self-threading design with a shoulder stop, these pins ensure smooth self-alignment during insertion, providing reliable performance in both anterior and posterior applications.

Product Overview

Available in titanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steel, TMS® Link Plus® pins are compatible with both manual and mechanical placement techniques. The color-coded KODEX® drills correspond to specific pin sizes, facilitating accurate canal preparation and efficient workflow.

Key Feature

  • Self-threading design for secure dentin engagement
  • Shoulder stop for controlled insertion depth
  • Smooth self-alignment during placement
  • Available in titanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steel
  • Color-coded KODEX® drills for precise canal preparation
  • Single shear configuration for reliable retention

Common Applications

  • Core build-ups requiring enhanced retention
  • Stabilization of restorations in vital and non-vital teeth
  • Anterior and posterior restorations

Technical Specifications

  • Product Name: TMS® Link Plus® Single Shear Self-Threading Pins
  • Brand: Coltene
  • Material: Titanium alloy or gold-plated stainless steel
  • Pin Sizes:
    • Minuta: 0.0135″ (0.350 mm) – Pink
    • Minikin: 0.017″ (0.425 mm) – Red
    • Minim: 0.021″ (0.525 mm) – Silver
    • Regular: 0.027″ (0.675 mm) – Gold
  • Placement Method: Manual or mechanical
  • Drill System: Color-coded KODEX® drills
  • Package Quantity: Varies by kit (e.g., 24 or 50 pins)
  • Country of Origin: Switzerland

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

  • Smooth insertion with minimal dentin stress
  • Color-coded system helps avoid sizing errors
  • Reliable retention for a wide range of restorations
  • Durable materials with excellent clinical performance

9. BI-V-PIN with Plastic Sleeve – Narrow

Product Description

BI-V-PIN with Plastic Sleeve is a narrow model with two dowel pins, ideal for positioning in a limited space V-shaped profile and suitable for use with close standing dies such as lower anteriors.

Key Feature

  • Only one drilling needed for each die
  • Tapered shape glides easily into final position
  • Open-ended sleeve prevents clogging and simplifies cleaning
  • Reproducible positioning without vertical adjustment of bite
  • Small base thanks to reduced pin length (12.5 mm)
  • Custom plastic sleeves are dimensionally stable against moisture and heat

Technical Specifications

Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Size: 12.5 mm Length


10. Filpin™ Restorative System – Hand Ratchet Series

Filpin™ restorative system – hand ratchet series retention pin refill, standard package - southeast medical products

Product Description

Filpin™ Restorative System – Hand Ratchet Series is a manually placed, self-shearing titanium pin system designed for enhanced retention in restorative procedures. Made from 99.8% pure titanium, it features a 47° thread form that minimizes dentin displacement and reduces the risk of crazing.

Product Overview

The Filpin R-Series is specifically engineered for manual placement using a hand ratchet, offering enhanced tactile control during insertion. Its self-shearing design ensures precise 2 mm placement depth, while the thread geometry provides secure anchorage with minimal trauma to dentin.

Key Features

Manual placement with hand ratchet
99.8% pure titanium for biocompatibility and strength
47° thread form reduces dentin stress and crazing
Self-shearing at 2 mm for consistent results
Tactile feedback during manual insertion
Available in two sizes with color coding

Common Applications

Core build-ups with composite or amalgam
Retention enhancement in dentin
Stabilization in MOD cavities
Preventing rotational movement in restorations
Situations requiring controlled, manual pin placement

Technical Specifications

Product Name: Filpin™ Restorative System – Hand Ratchet Series
Brand: Filhol Dental
Material: 99.8% pure titanium
Thread Angle: 47°
Placement Method: Manual (hand ratchet)
Self-Shearing Depth: 2 mm
Sizes: Universal (0.60 mm / red), Large (0.76 mm / black)
Package Quantity: 35 pins + 1 universal twist drill
Country of Origin: United Kingdom

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

Manual placement offers excellent control
Minimizes dentin damage and crazing
Consistent self-shearing depth every time
Strong, reliable retention in a wide range of restorations

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Dental Country Editors

The Dental Country research and editing team reviews all the public and specialty data available for products and services in dentistry as well as consumers' feedback and reviews to provide a fair source of information to both professional and public consumers in dentistry. We appreciate feedback, corrections, suggestions, or additional information available regarding all reviews and articles.