What is the usual depth for pinholes during a pinledge preparation?

The usual depth for pinholes during a pinledge preparation is generally accepted to be about 2 mm. This depth is considered optimal as it allows for adequate retention and stability of the pins used in the prosthetic restoration. It ensures that the pins can effectively secure the restoration to the tooth structure without compromising the integrity of the surrounding tooth material.

By selecting a depth of 2 mm, practitioners can achieve a balance between securing the pin and minimizing the risk of damaging the tooth substrate or affecting the health of the surrounding dental tissues. This depth is well-established in clinical practice as it provides sufficient anchorage while maintaining the overall structural integrity of the remaining tooth.

In contrast, a lesser depth of 1 mm or 1.5 mm may not provide enough retention, leading to potential complications with the prosthetic fitting and durability. On the other hand, a greater depth such as 3 mm may pose unnecessary risk to the tooth and could lead to complications such as pulpal exposure or weakening of the tooth structure. Therefore, the choice of 2 mm as the typical depth for pinholes aligns with established guidelines to enhance both the function and longevity of the prosthetic restoration.