Preserve, don’t extract:KGMU dental experts | Lucknow News

Lucknow: Natural teeth have no true replacement and every effort should be made to save them rather than extract them. This was the key message from dental experts at KGMU on the eve of the World Endodontic Day.Experts highlighted preventive advice, including brushing twice daily with a soft brush, cleaning between teeth, avoiding continuous snacking, limiting sugary drinks and dental check-ups in every six months, or every three to four months for diabetics, smokers and those with dry mouth.Prof Pragya Pandey of the conservative dentistry and endodontics department, explained that teeth are living structures connected to the jawbone through ligaments that sense pressure and protect the jaw. “Once a tooth is removed, its strength, cushioning and support for the facial structure are lost. Most teeth can be saved and maintained for decades. Preservation is better than replacement,” she said.She added that implants, though helpful when a tooth cannot be saved, cannot replace the natural ligament or sensory function. Bone around an extracted tooth continues to shrink over time. “The principle is simple: save what can be healed, replace only what must be lost,” she added.Prof Rakesh Kumar Yadav, dental faculty, KGMU, said public awareness is a challenge. “Many people associate root-canal treatment with pain, which is not the case. With modern tools like microscopes and lasers, the procedure is comfortable. Early consultation can prevent complications, preserve natural teeth and reduce overall treatment costs,” he said. Prof Ramesh Bharti, faculty of dental sciences, KGMU, highlighted the shift in dental practice toward conservation. “Dentistry now focuses on preserving teeth, restoring function and maintaining oral health. Our goal is to help patients keep their own teeth,” he said.