How hard did you study to become a dentist?
Between ’91 and ‘98 I spent my life at varsity, slogging away with no social life. As you can see from my picture, during these years I lost most of my hair! The best part for me was the end, when I successfully graduated! The worst part was that after a long day I had to go home and internalise the enormous volumes of text (in Latin...) about the profession. I still have nightmares about impending examination.

Is there a difference in treating dental problems in SA and the UK?
Our training in SA is excellent and we are well known and respected for that amongst health professionals in the UK. The most noticeable differences lie in the patients’ health and lifestyle philosophy. Most patients in the UK come to have treatment as their last resort. Saffas are more concerned about their general wellbeing and take their health more seriously.

Why do you think these differences exist between your patients?
I believe the different attitudes come from different upbringings. We, Saffas, are brought up in a health-conscious environment and we are more receptive to different treatment options. We know that if we do not have our health and general wellbeing we cannot enjoy our life to the full.

If a number of SA PROMO members turn up at the door with only one front tooth what will be your first impression?
I think everybody should have a seventh chance and such I would do everything to help the people who visit my practice to maintain, restore or improve their smile. Traditional dentistry can provide replacements for missing teeth using bridges, removable partials and dentures; however, each of these has its problems. Because of the remarkable advances in dentistry in recent years, dental implants offer an effective solution for people who have lost one or more teeth. I believe everyone deserves to be proud of their smile and the dentistry of the 21st century helps this dream to become reality for all!