Richard Johns: Pioneer of Dental Implantology and Implant Educati 2026

Dental implantology lost a true pioneer with the passing of Richard Johns, who died aged 96. In collaboration with Swedish professor Per-Ingvar Brånemark, he established the Dental Implant Institute in Sheffield in 1991—the UK's first school offering dedicated courses on implant techniques and treatment. His work transformed how dentists approach tooth replacement and restorative care.

Early Life and Education

Richard Johns was born in Sutton, Surrey, to Walter, an accountant, and Cynthia (née Gamble), a secretary. He attended St Paul’s School in London before completing national service as a dental orderly with the RAF in Hong Kong. In 1949, he enrolled at Guy’s Hospital to study dentistry, qualifying in 1955—the same year he married Pam Thurgood, a teacher he met through the Inter Varsity social club.

Career Beginnings and Shift to Academia

After qualifying, Richard worked as a house surgeon at Guy’s and as a part-time registrar while taking an associate role at a practice in New Eltham, south London. He then opened his own practice in Orpington, Kent, with Pam managing accounts and after-hours calls. Later, he took on a part-time teaching role at Guy’s and eventually became a full-time lecturer, closing his practice in 1968.

Research in Dental Implants

While lecturing at Guy’s, Richard began pioneering research into dental implants, earning a PhD in 1973 and publishing numerous papers on the subject. In 1981, he was appointed professor of restorative dentistry at Sheffield University.

The Dental Implant Institute and Legacy

One of Richard’s patients in Sheffield was Sir Ronald Hobson, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who provided financial support in 1991 to establish the Dental Implant Institute. This institute became the first UK school to offer comprehensive courses on implantology, setting new standards in dental education.

Key Takeaways from Richard Johns’ Career

• Pioneer of dental implantology in the UK, collaborating with Per-Ingvar Brånemark.
• Founded the first dental implant training school in the UK—the Dental Implant Institute.
• Published extensive research in restorative dentistry and implant techniques.
• Served as president of the British Endodontic Society, British Society for Restorative Dentistry, and the Odontological Section of the Royal Society of Medicine.
• Inspired a generation of dentists through teaching at Guy’s and Sheffield University.

Impact on Modern Dentistry

Richard’s work made dental implants a mainstream, accepted procedure. Before his efforts, implantology was often considered experimental. Today, implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, with millions of procedures performed annually worldwide.

After retiring in 1998, Richard and Pam moved to Winchester, Hampshire. He remained active in dental circles until his death at age 96. His legacy lives on through the many dentists he trained and the patients whose lives he improved.

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