In Memory of Professor Eddie Scher, 1950 - 2026

07 July 2026 (Last updated: 14 Jul 2026 14:19)

The Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) is deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Eddie Scher and extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. He was a defining figure in UK implant dentistry whose clinical expertise, commitment to education, and leadership helped shape the profession for generations.

Professor Scher qualified from University College Hospital in 1973 and went on to build a career that placed him at the very centre of UK implant dentistry's development. In 1985, he established the Walpole Street Dental Practice in Chelsea. As a close colleague recalls, “he set the scene for the practice of implantology when it was controversial.”

Eddie was a founding member of the ADI and instrumental in its formation in 1987, helping transform a small network of clinicians into the UK's leading professional organisation for implant dentistry.

Working alongside fellow pioneers, he championed education, professional standards and evidence-based practice. He later served as ADI President and, in recognition of his endeavours, was awarded Honorary Membership in 2013. In 2025, he received an award for Outstanding Contribution to Implant Dentistry, reflecting a lifetime of tireless work.

Education remained central to his career. He founded the Osseointegrated Year Course and ran a comprehensive implant course at his Walpole Street Practice for over 30 years, mentoring countless clinicians and nurturing in them a passion for learning and sharing knowledge as implant dentistry evolved. He also held teaching and academic appointments at the University of Salford, the Eastman Dental Institute, Temple University in Philadelphia, and institutions in France and Israel, earning widespread respect as an educator and international ambassador for the profession.

Beyond the ADI, he dedicated over 25 years to Alpha Omega as Scientific Chairman, arranging and overseeing its annual lecture series, and served as Trustee on the Alpha Omega Trust Council as well as Chairman of the London Chapter on several occasions.

Coming from a family with a strong dental heritage, Professor Scher continued that tradition while forging his own remarkable path.

A close colleague described his contribution: “Eddie Scher was one of the true pioneers of implant dentistry, whose influence extended far beyond his own clinical practice. An outstanding educator and inspiring lecturer, he was unfailingly generous with his time, knowledge and encouragement. His vision, integrity and enthusiasm helped shape generations of implant dentists, and his legacy will continue through the many clinicians and patients whose lives he touched.”

Professor Eddie Scher's contributions live on through the profession he helped shape, the clinicians he mentored and the patients whose lives were transformed by his work.

 

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