Dr Phil Bennett
I qualified as a dentist in 1978 and first became interested in dental implants in 1985, when implant dentistry in the UK was still very much in its infancy. I began placing dental implants myself in 1988.
I was born in Bristol and have always had strong connections with the West Country. After qualifying, I initially practised in Yeovil before moving to Buckinghamshire, where I bought my first dental practice. I later established a branch practice in Harley Street, London.
My interest in dental implants began in 1985, but at that time training opportunities in the UK were extremely limited. I was fascinated by what implant dentistry could offer patients, but I wasn’t brave enough to start placing implants until 1988.
Before doing so, I wanted to learn as much as I could. I travelled internationally to develop my knowledge and clinical skills, undertaking training in the USA, France, Germany and Sweden. I went on to provide both the surgical and restorative aspects of dental implant treatment.
Dental implant education and experience
As implant dentistry developed in the UK, I became increasingly involved in implant education and in helping to establish appropriate training for dentists entering the field.
I served on the committee of the Association of Dental Implantology and was subsequently elected President. In 2007, I became its Director of Education.
European Expert in Implantology
In 2009, I was awarded the distinction of becoming the UK’s first European Expert in Implantology by the European Dental Association.
From practice owner to focusing on implant dentistry
For much of my career I combined clinical dentistry and implant treatment with owning and running dental practices. My last practice was in Lyme Regis, which we eventually sold to a corporate dental group.
Since then, I have chosen to work within other dental practices rather than owning my own, allowing me to concentrate on the clinical work I most enjoy.
Today, I work at Taunton Dental Practice, where my clinical work is focused on dental implant treatment.
My approach to dental implants
Throughout my career, techniques, materials and technology in implant dentistry have changed enormously, but my approach remains much the same: careful assessment, meticulous treatment planning and choosing the treatment that is appropriate for the individual patient.
After nearly four decades of placing dental implants, I still find it enormously rewarding to see the difference that well-planned treatment can make to a patient’s ability to eat, smile and feel confident.