Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test 2026 - Free ADC Practice Questions and Study Guide

The most likely point of failure in a setup involving a vital tooth with a pin-retained amalgam core and a cemented crown is between the core and the cement. This is due to several factors related to the bonding properties and the materials used.

The amalgam core, while providing structural support, may not achieve as effective a bond with the crown cement as desired. This interface can be susceptible to various stresses, such as those from occlusion (bite forces) or thermal changes. If the bond between the amalgam core and the cement weakens over time due to any of these factors, it can become the site of failure, leading to dislodgement of the crown.

In contrast, the other interfaces, such as between the crown and the cement, while also important, are generally more reliable if appropriate adhesive techniques are employed. Similarly, the margins of the preparation and the crown itself are typically designed to prevent failure at those points when they are properly executed.