Menu
After graduating from the University of Stellenbosch in 1999, Jean worked in private practice in the Netherlands and the UK. Back in South Africa, he gained his postgraduate diploma in aesthetic dentistry at the University of Western Cape and a master’s degree in restorative dentistry in 2019.
With years of postgraduate training and continual lecturing and education, Jean has developed a deep understanding of reconstructive dentistry and a passion for sharing his knowledge with recent graduates.
A key founding member of the South African Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry, Jean has just been appointed as scientific chair of the South African Dental Association.
After founding Smith and van Lierop Dentistry 11 years ago, Corné has grown the practice to one of the most successful in the country. Along the way she’s also been recognised as a thought leader and prominent educator within the world of dental aesthetics, lecturing internationally and serving as the president of the South African Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry.
Corné’s pursuit of perfection in slow dentistry means she’s always on the cutting edge of innovation. At the same time, her compassionate approach to patient care means she creates an unrivalled experience which fosters trust and lifelong loyalty from her clients.
Hey everyone, it’s Jean & Corné here, with a more personal note about why we started the Bridge Programme together.
When we graduated from university, it felt like there was no one out there to mentor us and show us the ropes.
At the same time, there was a huge discrepancy between what we’d learned at university and what we were being expected to apply in private practice, and our head clinicians often didn’t have the time or patience to teach us. It was a bit of a rough start, to say the least.
So, we started the Bridge Program to guide new dentists through this transition. To provide the patience, time and expertise necessary to ensure they leave the programme with all the tools needed to survive and THRIVE in a professional environment.
Our goal is to instil a passion for dentistry and a hunger for knowledge, because new technologies are emerging at an ever-increasing rate. It’s essential that dentists continue to learn and grow with these advancements – not only for our own professional development but for the sake of our patients.
Over the years we’ve heard miraculous stories of what our students have gone on to achieve, starting practices, winning international awards and becoming experts in their own right. This is our wish for you, too, and we can’t wait to meet you.
Dr Alasdair McKelvie graduated from Dundee Dental School in Scotland then obtained an LLM in healthcare law from the University of Wales.
He has worked in general dental practice for more than 23 years, first as an associate, then as the owner of his own practice. He now works for Dental Protection as a dentolegal consultant, and brings a unique and valuable perspective to the Bridge process.
