icon dental treatments icon dental treatments

Dental Treatments

icon facial aesthetics icon facial aesthetics

facial aesthetics

icon referrals icon referrals

referrals

Contact Us

5 Myths About Dental Implants That Stop People Getting Treatment

3 November 2025

5 Myths About Dental Implants That Stop People Getting Treatment

Missing teeth can dramatically impact your confidence, ability to eat comfortably, and overall quality of life. Yet despite dental implants being one of the most successful and transformative treatments in modern dentistry, many people hesitate to explore this life-changing solution due to persistent myths and misconceptions. 

Perhaps you’ve heard that dental implants Newbury are too expensive, too painful, or unsuitable for your age or situation. These outdated beliefs prevent countless individuals from discovering how implant treatment could restore their smile, improve their oral health, and enhance their daily life. 

At The Briars Dental Centre in Newbury, Berkshire, our comprehensive approach to implant dentistry combines genuine specialist expertise with compassionate care, helping patients separate fact from fiction when considering tooth replacement options.

Myth 1: Dental Implants Are Too Expensive for Most People

One of the most common misconceptions about dental implant treatment centres on cost, with many people assuming implants are prohibitively expensive luxury treatments rather than practical, long-term investments in oral health.

Understanding the True Value of Dental Implants

When considering implant treatment, it’s essential to evaluate the long-term financial picture rather than focusing solely on initial costs. Traditional tooth replacement options like removable dentures or bridges typically require regular adjustments, repairs, and eventual replacements throughout your lifetime.

Dental implants, by contrast, are designed to last decades with proper care. The titanium posts integrate permanently with your jawbone, creating a stable foundation that doesn’t deteriorate over time like natural tooth roots supporting bridges.

Comparing Lifetime Costs

A removable partial denture might seem more affordable initially, but the ongoing costs of adhesives, adjustments, repairs, and eventual replacements can exceed the cost of implant treatment over 10-15 years. Additionally, the hidden costs of dietary restrictions, social embarrassment, and reduced quality of life are difficult to quantify but significant.

Flexible Treatment Options

At The Briars, Dr Supriti Paraskar, our Registered Specialist Prosthodontist, works with patients to develop treatment plans that balance optimal outcomes with practical considerations. Her expertise in complex cases means she can often suggest phased treatment approaches or alternative implant solutions like All-on-X systems that provide maximum benefit within various budget parameters.

Myth 2: Dental Implant Surgery Is Extremely Painful

Fear of pain ranks among the top reasons people avoid implant treatment, often based on outdated information or confusion with more invasive surgical procedures from decades past.

Modern Implant Techniques Prioritise Comfort

Contemporary implant placement techniques have evolved significantly, with most procedures performed under local anaesthesia in a comfortable clinic setting. The precision of modern surgical methods means less trauma to surrounding tissues and consequently reduced post-operative discomfort.

Dr Nicholas French, who has extensive interests in implantology, brings a uniquely compassionate approach to implant procedures. His background as a dental technician before qualifying as a dental surgeon provides him with exceptional understanding of prosthetic design and surgical precision, contributing to more comfortable treatment experiences.

What Patients Actually Experience

Most patients report that implant placement feels similar to having a tooth extracted, with the added benefit that you’re gaining rather than losing oral function. Post-operative discomfort is typically managed effectively with standard pain relief medications, and most people return to normal activities within 24-48 hours.

Advanced Pain Management

The Briars utilises the latest anaesthetic techniques and, when appropriate, sedation options to ensure patient comfort throughout treatment. Our comprehensive approach means we monitor your comfort levels closely and adjust our techniques to your individual needs.

Myth 3: Dental Implants Don’t Look Natural

Concerns about artificial-looking results often stem from outdated examples or poorly executed treatments from practices lacking specialist expertise in implant aesthetics.

Specialist Expertise Makes the Difference

Dr Supriti Paraskar’s advanced qualifications in Prosthodontics include extensive training in aesthetic considerations for implant-supported restorations. Her gentle and empathetic approach extends to understanding patients’ aesthetic goals and creating personalised treatment plans that achieve natural-looking results.

As a Registered Specialist Prosthodontist with additional qualifications from King’s College London and the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh, Dr Paraskar possesses the specialised knowledge required to match implant restorations perfectly to your existing teeth in colour, shape, and translucency.

Custom Prosthetic Design

Each implant crown is individually crafted to complement your facial features, existing teeth, and personal preferences. Modern ceramic materials and advanced design techniques allow for incredible precision in creating restorations that are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.

Digital Smile Design Technology

The Briars utilises advanced Digital Smile Design technology, allowing patients to preview their expected results before treatment begins. This collaboration between patient and specialist ensures aesthetic expectations are met and often exceeded.

Myth 4: You’re Too Old for Dental Implant Treatment

Age-related myths about implant suitability prevent many older adults from accessing treatment that could significantly improve their quality of life during their golden years.

Health Matters More Than Age

Successful implant treatment depends primarily on overall health and adequate bone density rather than chronological age. Many patients in their 70s, 80s, and beyond successfully receive implant treatment and experience dramatic improvements in their ability to eat, speak, and socialise confidently.

Life-Changing Solutions for Complex Cases

The All-on-X dental implant system represents a revolutionary approach for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. This advanced treatment, which Dr Paraskar performs with precision and expertise, can provide a complete set of fixed teeth supported by just four to six implants per arch.

For older patients who have struggled with loose dentures for years, All-on-X treatment offers the possibility of eating favourite foods again, speaking clearly, and smiling with confidence. The procedure can often be completed in a single day, with patients leaving the practice with functional, attractive teeth.

Comprehensive Health Assessment

Our thorough evaluation process assesses your suitability for implant treatment based on bone health, gum condition, and overall medical status. Age alone is never a disqualifying factor, and we work closely with patients and their medical teams to ensure safe, successful treatment.

Myth 5: Dental Implant Treatment Takes Too Long

Misconceptions about treatment duration often discourage patients who believe implant treatment requires years of inconvenience and multiple lengthy procedures.

Realistic Treatment Timelines

While implant treatment does require time for proper healing and integration, the process is far more streamlined than many people imagine. Traditional implant placement typically involves a 3-6 month healing period for the implant to integrate with your jawbone, followed by placement of your custom restoration.

Immediate Solutions When Appropriate

For suitable cases, immediate loading protocols allow placement of temporary teeth on the same day as implant surgery. Dr Nicholas French’s extensive experience with implant procedures means he can identify cases where immediate function is possible, dramatically reducing the time patients spend without teeth.

Advanced Treatment Planning

The Briars’ comprehensive approach includes detailed treatment planning that minimises the number of appointments required and coordinates multiple procedures efficiently. Our established reputation means we’ve refined our processes to respect patients’ time whilst maintaining the highest standards of care.

All-on-X: Complete Transformation in One Day

The All-on-X system exemplifies how modern implant dentistry can provide rapid results for complex cases. Patients who choose this advanced treatment often receive a complete set of fixed teeth in a single appointment, eliminating the extended periods without teeth that characterise traditional approaches.

The Reality of Modern Implant Dentistry

Understanding the facts about dental implant treatment helps patients make informed decisions based on current techniques and realistic expectations rather than outdated myths and misconceptions.

Modern implant dentistry, particularly when performed by specialists with advanced training like Dr Paraskar, offers predictable results, comfortable treatment experiences, and natural-looking outcomes that can last a lifetime with proper care.

The combination of Dr Paraskar’s specialist qualifications and Dr French’s extensive interests in implantology means The Briars can address implant cases ranging from single tooth replacement to complete mouth reconstruction, all within our comprehensive care philosophy.

Your Journey Starts Here

Don’t let myths and misconceptions prevent you from exploring how dental implant treatment could transform your life. The reality of modern implant dentistry is far more positive than these persistent myths suggest, offering comfortable procedures, natural-looking results, and excellent long-term value.

At The Briars Dental Centre, our combination of specialist expertise, advanced technology, and patient-centred care creates the ideal environment for successful implant treatment. Dr Supriti Paraskar’s registered specialist qualifications in Prosthodontics, combined with Dr Nicholas French’s extensive implant experience, ensures you receive the highest standard of care throughout your treatment journey.

Whether you’re considering replacing a single tooth or exploring comprehensive solutions like All-on-X treatment, our established reputation and comprehensive approach mean you can trust us to provide accurate information, realistic expectations, and exceptional results.

Book an implant consultation to get accurate information about your specific situation and discover how dental implants could restore your confidence and quality of life. Call The Briars Dental Centre on 01635 40311 or visit us at 8 St John’s Road, Newbury, RG14 7LJ to begin your transformation today.

Back to Blog

Get in touch

For detailed information on the treatments we provide, or to book an appointment, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Testimonials

we love our patients

I recently visited Briars Dental Practice in Newbury and had a truly excellent experience. From the moment I walked in, the receptionist greeted me warmly and made me feel welcome. The hygienist who saw me prior to my appointment with the dentist was very thorough and gave me some great advice on how to keep my teeth healthy.I was then seen by Richard, one of the dentists at the practice, and I have to say that he and his nurse were fantastic. They put me at ease throughout the whole procedure, were extremely professional and caring, and made sure that I was comfortable at all times. I was also impressed by their attention to detail and their willingness to take the time to answer all of my questions.In fact, I was so pleased with my experience that I would also like to mention another dentist named Richard who saw me previously. He too was excellent, very thorough and professional, and I felt very well taken care of during my appointments with him.Overall, I can't recommend Briars Dental Practice highly enough. The staff are all so friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, and they really go above and beyond to make sure that their patients are well looked after. If you're looking for a great dental practice in Newbury, look no further than Briars.
Beatrice Andreea
Beatrice Andreea
12:07 11 May 23
Thank you for a wonderful experience, I am a coward when it comes to the dentist, Mr Nick French, put me at ease, and has the patience of a Saint. I would also say the dental nurse was I lovely lady who let me crush her hand while I was having my injections. I give Briars Dental Centre 10 out of 10, and would not hesitate to recommend them.
Jan Hamments
Jan Hamments
19:11 29 Jun 23
I had a hygienist appointment with Jo and her nurse, Suzanne. It was the first time I’d tried GBT and found the experience much more comfortable than usual. Jo and Suzanne really put me at ease and made sure I was happy throughout the treatment. It was good being able to clearly see the areas which I needed to improve on brushing and Jo gave me great tips. Would highly recommend
Lauren Jade
Lauren Jade
16:52 19 Jun 23
After such a positive experience today with Richard I thought it only fair to delete my previous review. I am a very nervous patient and not ashamed to say I cried before my appointment. Richard and his lovely dental nurse were so understanding and treated me with kindness and empathy. Richard explained everything to me and allowed me to go at my pace. All options for my next appointment were explained to me and I now have trust in Richard that I feel I will not need full sedation. I was in alot of pain prior to my appointment today along with an enormous amount of anxiety. Richard even explained to me how to breathe when having treatment- no other dentist has ever explained that to me before!Thank you again Richard and to your lovely dental nurse.
Mary Lovelock
Mary Lovelock
15:03 24 Apr 23
I had my consultancy appointment with Chelsea today who looked after me very well. She was very friendly and easy to talk to and explained everything to me very nicely. And also answered all of my questions and made me feel at ease today and for future appointments. It was nice to meet you, and thank you.Glenn.
Glenn Cooper
Glenn Cooper
22:20 23 May 23
I recently had to visit Richard Lineker as I'd broken a tooth.He and his lovely nurse Agata made me feel comfortable and explained what treatment I needed.They work extremely well as a team andmy treatment was painless.
Pauline Preston
Pauline Preston
13:59 12 Jul 23
Wanted to share my mother's thoughts of recent experience visiting Jo Craig hygienist."Jo was attentive , caring gentle and thorough today.I came out feeling fresh and motivated.Well looked after also by her lovely nurse Jenny."Angela Shaw.
Suzanne Hendry
Suzanne Hendry
11:03 21 Jul 23
I am very pleased with the treatment I received. After another dentist had told me the tooth had to be extracted, Mr Fady Khoury managed to save the tooth. The procedure was carried out in a very efficient and professional manner and I am very happy with the outcome.
Terence Marshall
Terence Marshall
16:03 24 Jul 23
Had an appointment with Chelsea today and it went very very well. Had my scans and photos done for Invisalign, which can be a bit awkward but she made it a comfortable experience. She was very friendly, welcoming, put me at ease and asked if I had any overall questions at that stage of the process. She was knowledgeable and explained everything I asked about. It's my first time at this clinic so I'm looking forward for my second appointment to discuss treatment. Great first impression from the moment I stepped through the door! Thanks!
Diana
Diana
11:01 31 Jul 23
A very happy customer! I had quite a lot of crooked and misaligned teeth so Victoria introduced me to Invisalign. She carefully created a program to give me the smile I wanted. In the end it took longer than we had expected but Victoria very diligently took me through every step of the process and she didn’t compromise on any part of the process to ensure I got the smile and teeth alignment we both wanted. A huge thank you to her and her assistant Jen who made every effort to make me feel comfortable throughout. Highly recommended.San
San James
San James
17:16 02 Aug 23
My visit to Richard last week went well. He identified that x rays hadn’t been taken for 3 years, and showed me the images, interpreting the results carefully and explaining the steps that may be required as treatment. I am disappointed that I will need to have another consultation to confirm if a root canal is needed. Warning: if you do need a consultation with the endodontist, you will need to pay in advance. I couldn’t do that on the day, but I will be booking in to have this followed up as soon as I can. I will need my own teeth for many more years!
Emma Mulholland
Emma Mulholland
15:31 18 Oct 23
Over the years I`ve found that the Briars delivers consistently high quality dental care and yesterday was no exception. I recieved first class root canal treatment by Dr. Richard Condon and team. Everything was explained carefully and despite my misconceptions was delivered pain free. I have no hesitation in recommending the Briars.
Mark Batten
Mark Batten
10:42 24 Oct 23
Having just completed a course of treatment with The Briars I can strongly recommend Fady and his team. Thank you for your straightforward and thorough approach, and for providing treatment in a stress-free environment.
Tom Saunderson
Tom Saunderson
08:16 02 Nov 23
It was a very welcoming place at the practice with friendly staff whose knowledge was informative and comprehensive. Chelsea was very accommodating and took the time to listen my concerns and provide me with the best advice on what action to take next.
Michael Scrimshaw
Michael Scrimshaw
18:02 23 Nov 23
Had my Hygiene appointment yesterday with lovely Meryl and her nurse Kiera. Meryl was gentle and very thorough. She removed all the staining from my teeth and now they feel super clean. Kiera made sure that I was comfortable throughout the treatment.
Agata Czarnecka
Agata Czarnecka
19:23 18 Jan 24
I highly recommend Briars Dental Care, I can't thank them enough for my teeth, they really put me at ease especially Kody. My teeth have never been straight but over the years they got worse, and made me feel so ashamed and embarrassed by them, now I have nice straight teeth and my confidence back .
Wendy Pearson
Wendy Pearson
09:58 23 Jan 24
Absolutely Excellent service, from the initial phone call with Libby at reception who was so kind, understanding and so helpful and Zoe who helped us on the phone with trying to find us appointments needed and for the amazing care and service received on arrival for treatment that this dental practice is without a doubt outstanding. Five stars is not enough!Highly recommend the briars, lovely staff and top class treatment!
Angel Greaves
Angel Greaves
13:05 07 Feb 24
I can 100% recommend this dental practice as I have been with Briars Dental Centre for a few years now. From the reception staff to the Hygenist and Dentist I have had my confidence boosted in the biggest way. The reception girls are always very professional, helpful, friendly and always make time for a little chat. If it hadn’t been for one of the girls on the reception team I would not have known about the payment plan, which is proving to be well worth it, and gives me free Hygenist and Check-ups and a reduction of 10% on other treatments. Thank you girls for that. You are all fantastic and lovely. Keep doing what you’re doing.My previous Hygenist. Aimee, was absolutely the best and I had no fear going to her. Now I have a new girl, Meryl, and she is also blooming brilliant. Thank you.My dentist, Nicola Murdoch, deserves the most praise having built up my confidence in dentists again. She even adjusts treatments according to my own personal dilemmas, like claustrophobia. She’s just the best. Thank you so much Nicola.
Debbie Huntley
Debbie Huntley
15:45 28 Feb 24
I have just completed my Invisalign treatment and I couldn’t be happier with the results. I wish I had done it sooner! Victoria, Jen and Chelsea were fantastic throughout and I wouldn't hesitate in recommending them.
Jen Woodbridge
Jen Woodbridge
14:38 06 Mar 24
We have received the most amazing service from Rochelle before meeting Dr Holden who will be overseeing my daughters Invisalign treatment. Very professional and approachable team we are very impressed.
Lisa Miles
Lisa Miles
10:11 08 Mar 24
I have just finished my Invisalign treatment with Dr Victoria Holden, I never imagined my teeth would look this good, they are beautiful and straight and I have a glorious smile. The aligners are stress free, comfortable, easy to wear and the scanning was simple. Victoria and Jen have been amazing from start to finish responded to any questions I had. I cannot thank them enough. I would recommend this treatment to any one of any age, it’s the best money I’ve ever spent.
Charlotte Bradford
Charlotte Bradford
09:57 14 Mar 24
Always a good experience at the Briars from the reception team, the hygenist to the dentists themselves . Victoria is the most patient , kind and professional dentist . Highly recommended
Jenny Philcox
Jenny Philcox
16:55 13 Mar 24
I had a lot of discomfort from two adjacent back teeth, the slightest touch of cold drink and it got really painful. The Briars team quickly diagnosed the problem and explained the x-ray images that showed a previous different practice’s root canal had caused decay of the tooth and the adjacent one along with the surrounding bone. I was left with a few choices that were clearly explained to me, but removal of the two teeth was the option I took with an implant replacement for one of them. I was referred to Nick French, who is their implant specialist. I had a process that encouraged the bone to regrow and then the implant. Nick’s demeanour is so calming and his explanations very clear, I had no distress or discomfort at all. I recognised the techniques he uses from the manufacturing industry, they are so advanced that the replacement tooth feels exactly like the one it replaced and now my mouth feels calm for the first time in quite a while. I totally recommend The Briars Dental Centre and Nick French.
David Hartwell
David Hartwell
06:43 04 Apr 24
Having completed my first appointment with Amy at The Briars today I am very happy with the outcome. Everything was very well explained in detail to me and the staff were very polite and professional. Amy’s knowledge was brilliant and the technology used in the appointment was amazingly impressive. It really helped set my mind at ease and pointed me in the right direction for the rest of my treatment journey. I would highly recommend The Briars.
Jonny Paine
Jonny Paine
21:49 19 Apr 24
I’ve been using a periodontal specialist at The Briars for nearly 20 years and have never been disappointed. Treatment and advice has always been top class and has certainly improved the overall health of my teeth.
Martin Shoesmith
Martin Shoesmith
15:26 19 Apr 24
I recently had an appointment with Joanna Craig and I couldn't be happier with the care I received. She was extremely professional and thorough during my cleaning. Her attention to detail was evident, and she made sure I was comfortable throughout the entire process 5 Stars
Neil Garland
Neil Garland
10:41 07 May 24
The Briars Dental Surgery provides an exceptionally friendly and professional service that I would recommend to everyone. I grew up with a fear of dentists born out of difficult childhood experiences. However, I now look forward to my visits with my hygienist Jo Craig and her assistant Kasia. My Associate Dentist Nicola Murdoch provides annual check ups to ensure my overall teeth health remains in great shape. Sharmila has also taken great care of my gums with her specialist expertise. You are in wonderfully safe and caring hands at the Briars and they can cater for everything dental related.
Laurence Berry
Laurence Berry
08:54 10 May 24
All the staff at the Briars are lovely! Having just completed my invisalign treatment I could not be happier with the results! The process was quick and painless and the care given during the treatment was spectacular!
Jake Martin
Jake Martin
09:29 10 May 24
Had a great detailed and well explained consultation with Chelsea regarding my concerns about dental treatment to improve my smile. She was so thorough and the whole thing was very pleasant.
Bridget & Warwick Ryan
Bridget & Warwick Ryan
11:14 13 Jun 24
Great service for a root canal treatment. Dr Richard Condon was very professional, explained everything clearly before doing and after the procedure which lasted for 2 hours. Removed a crown, treated the root canals and replaced with temporary crown. No pain during the procedure at all, just a little that day when the numbness faded. Next day almost back to normal. Great job thank you.
Timothy Brew
Timothy Brew
19:00 19 Jun 24
Had an appointment today with my dentist Victoria Holden. I’m so impressed and grateful ???? kind caring efficient professional. I highly recommend and no words to express my gratitude ! Thank you
Natasha Christova
Natasha Christova
12:05 07 Aug 24
First appointment with Richard and Kasia yesturday. It's not my favourite place in the dentists chair but yesterday they made me feel comfortable and confident. We discussed the most suitable dental plan that was right for my needs and Richard put it in place.By the time I got home I had a email with all the information and costings. So professional and empathetic both of them.With gratitude Jo
Joanne Crook
Joanne Crook
13:45 28 Aug 24
After 30 years of constant pain in my head and shoulders I have finally found relief. A consultation with Afif lead to a swift diagnosis and a treatment that has literally changed the quality of my life. Great dentist
Victoria Anderson-Stewart
Victoria Anderson-Stewart
12:38 05 Sep 24
Having moved to the area 2 years ago, I was really hesitant to change dentist but I wish I did it sooner! Richard and team are truly incredible, they make me feel a part of the process and I always come out smiling.Many past experiences throughout my childhood meant the going to the dentist was often anxiety provoking, often ending up in anxiety attacks. I now (dare say) look forward to going to the dentist and feel more calm than I ever had so thank you Richard!I have recently had an onlay fitted and am beyond happy with the whole process and final outcome - you can’t even tell it’s there!Would highly recommend coming to the Briars ????
Abbie Trussler
Abbie Trussler
16:03 19 Sep 24
Fantastic dental practice. Very well equipped with the latest treatments available combined with warm, friendly staff and a very professional service. Definitely the best experience that I’ve ever had with a dental practice, would highly recommend.
Carol Odendaal
Carol Odendaal
10:11 02 Oct 24
I was recently booked in for an appointment with Amy to discuss Invisalign treatment. On arrival, reception staff were lovely and directed me to really nice and homely waiting room! Amy was so great, she made the appointment relaxed and friendly and took me through how Invisalign works and made sure I understood everything. At the end of the appointment she wasn’t pushy with me to get started and pay for treatment. She even emailed me a finance calculator so I could go away and think about what I wanted to do and how I would pay for it. Really lovely place and staff, highly recommend ????
Steph Adams
Steph Adams
16:04 15 Oct 24
I had 4 tooth implants in all, with the work being done to a very standard with great care by Nick French and his team, and I'm very happy with the results.
Mark Thompson
Mark Thompson
09:09 24 Oct 24
I have been visiting the Briars for many years and it is really good inevery way. Whilst visiting a dentist is not usually considered a great place to be, The Briars has a way of making it much easier that you think it will be. The Two treatments I had today were with Richard and Meryl who were both were more than kind, helpful and clear in their explanations. Thank you both so much.
Richard Dalgleish
Richard Dalgleish
15:55 20 Nov 24
Google Rating
View our testimonials
conten shape1
conten shape2
treatment_icon treatment_icon

General dentistry

A wealth of options to suit your needs.

treatment_icon treatment_icon

Cosmetic dentistry

Exceeding expectations with cosmetic dentistry.

treatment_icon treatment_icon

Teeth Straightening

Feel confident in a beaming new smile.

treatment_icon treatment_icon

Dental Implants

Your future smile begins with dental implants.

View all treatments

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

icon dental treatments icon dental treatments

Dental Treatments

icon facial aesthetics icon facial aesthetics

facial aesthetics

icon referrals icon referrals

referrals

Google Rating
4.9
Google Rating

How Can We Help?

Book Online

You will be taken to our booking page to select your appointment date / time.

Are you a new or existing patient?(Required)