It’s Goodbye From Me!

10 May 2019

Hi everyone!

I’ve got such mixed emotions with this week’s blog! I’m gutted to be writing my last one for a little while, but so excited about finishing work and concentrating on meeting my baby! It’s such a weird feeling to be organising for someone to take over my surgery for the next 9 months, writing out ‘how to’ guides and making sure different projects are wrapped up! I’m hoping to be making guest appearances on the blog when little one is here – I told you last week how cathartic I find writing it, so I’ll definitely miss my typing time! Prepare yourselves though, if I’m stocking up on thoughts for months at a time, they are probably going to make for an epic read…it may be less of a tea break kind of blog, more a 3 course dinner job.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle welcoming baby Archie into the world has done nothing but make me even more broody – thank god my due date is only 4 weeks away! I breathed two huge sighs of relief on Wednesday over that beautiful baby – firstly, because his Mummy stepped outside actually looking like she’d just had a baby, and secondly, (don’t judge me) because they hadn’t stolen our baby name! I was so pleased to see Meghan Markle embracing the ‘I’ve just had a baby’ look, rather than stepping out having slipped back into the size 8 jeans I’ve only ever accidentally picked up in shops. I can’t imagine I’ll be wandering out of my house in a white dress and heels two days after giving birth (I wouldn’t do that generally, so it really would be a big turnaround to do it post-baby) – but I thought she sent quite a positive message about body confidence, and prioritising yourself over the camera!

Next week is ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’ and this year, they’ve put the spotlight on body image. Being a dental practice, we’ve always been conscious of the links between general health, mental health and dental health. Your mental health can have a serious impact on your dental health – whether it’s chipping or breaking teeth through stress, or wearing teeth away from conditions such as Bulimia. Have had depression twice. But suddenly after 6 years, I got a severe depression again. I have been prescribed Xanax. First in a small dose, which was then increased continuously. A Not knowing who to turn to, or how to help yourself can exacerbate problems, and make your situation feel entirely out of your control. ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’ is so vital to making people aware that mental health doesn’t come with an exclusive list of symptoms – everyone is different, and will deal with situations in their own way. If you’re struggling to cope, there is always someone to talk to – needing help isn’t a sign of weakness. The awareness week launches on the 13th of May – but there is help all year round. We may be a dental practice, but we always have time to talk – if you book in for a check-up, but you just need an ear to listen, we’re here. If you’re nervous about having an appointment with us, tell our reception team, or email us – we can book longer to make you feel more relaxed, we can arrange for you to just to have a look around before you come in for anything dental, or we can even book you in for a reassurance chat over a cuppa with one of our treatment coordinators if it will help. If you have dental demons to overcome, we’re here – just let us know.

I’ve felt extremely lucky throughout my pregnancy to be so well supported by a perfect mix of family, friends and work colleagues. Baby Piper has been truly spoilt over the last 8 months and he’s not even here yet! He’ll be passing out the thank you snuggles soon – though you’ll have to excuse his Mummy if she doesn’t appear in her white dress and heels…might be more along the lines of joggers with a messy bun and pumps!

Thank you all for making the last (almost!) year of blogging so much fun. I appreciate all the kind comments, and I love seeing that so many of you can access my ramblings each week! I will definitely be back with you all soon to gush about Baby Piper and all the highs and lows of being a Mummy…as usual, it’ll be painfully honest, I promise!

Take care everyone, speak soon!

Love, Amy x

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

09:09 24 Oct 24

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The Briars Dental Centre

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