Post Purpose — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateRestorative DentistryPost PurposeORE Part 1

An endodontically treated tooth has insufficient coronal tooth structure to retain a core for a crown. What is the primary purpose of placing an intraradicular post?

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Correct answer: A — To retain the core restoration

Explanation lettering: C = shown as B · B = shown as C · E = shown as D · D = shown as E

A post is used principally to retain a core where there is inadequate remaining coronal tooth structure for core retention. The core then provides the foundation for the definitive restoration. A post does not strengthen the root (B) or reinforce remaining tooth tissue (C); preservation of sound tooth structure and an appropriate definitive restoration, including a ferrule where achievable, are more important for resistance to structural failure. It does not provide the coronal or apical seal of the root canal system (D): this depends on root canal obturation and a well-sealed definitive restoration. Aesthetic improvement (E) may influence restorative material choice, but is not the primary indication for a post.

Reference: Gonzaga CC et al. Comparing survival rates of endodontically treated teeth restored either with glass-fiber-reinforced or metal posts: a systematic review and meta-analyses. Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, 2022. The abstract states that a post system is indicated to retain a core. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35430048/