Preserving Natural Dentition: The Role of Endodontics in an Implant-Centric Era

The increasing popularity of dental implants has significantly transformed modern restorative dentistry, often positioning implants as a first-line treatment even when natural teeth could be salvaged. This shift, while supported by technological advancements and high success rates, raises ethical and clinical concerns regarding the premature extraction of teeth that are amenable to preservation. This article advocates for a biologically conservative approach, emphasizing the unique functional and psychological value of natural dentition. By promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and critical decision-making, it encourages clinicians to prioritize tooth retention when feasible, reinforcing the principle that preservation should precede replacement. Keywords: Dental implants, Tooth retention, Endodontic preservation, Restorative dentistry, Ethical considerations in dentistry, Interdisciplinary treatment planning.