Dr Jurie P Steyn is a prosthodontist specializing in the cosmetic restoration and replacement of teeth. His is a specialist private practice restricted to prosthodontics and implant dentistry. He is involved with the surgical, as well as the restorative and technical aspects of implant dentistry. Dr Steyn has over 30 years' experience as a dental practitioner and lectures internationally on implant and cosmetic dentistry. Dental implants are titanium devices used to support restorations that look like a tooth or group of teeth. They are placed within the jaw. The bone in the jaw then fuses, or osseointegrates, with the implant. Dental implants look and feel more like natural teeth than other prosthodontic solutions. Lacking a periodontal ligament however, can make them feel slightly different when chewing. Dental implants can be used to support crowns, bridges and dentures. They are more efficient than traditional bridges, as the surrounding teeth are not used to sup