Protecting or value betting in big pot

[tomhc]

This is a question that i consider basic, so many of you won't be interested. But if any experienced player would care to respond, i would be grateful.
Question: once the pot is laying odds for others to draw to their big draws (usually the turn,) is it best to stop betting with the best hand? Assuming there are not enough players in the pot to make value betting a set for the times when opponents are going to hit their flush or straight draws but improve me to a fullhouse or quads.
Putting aside hopes that my bet might drive out a confused or timid player, is it best to save bets and not make the pot any juicer for the eventual winner?