Prof Owen is an Emeritus Professor of the Faculty of Health Sciences at Wits, and has taught at three of the dental schools in South Africa. His last appointment was Professor and Head of the Department of Oral Rehabilitation at Wits, which at the time encompassed Prosthodontics, Endodontics and Operative Dentistry.

He has developed a variety of e-learning materials including an e-book on removable partial dentures. He continues to assist postgraduate students in the development and writing of research reports and papers, and is publishing papers trying to simplify what are often perceived as ‘difficult’ concepts.

He has pioneered the concept of “appropriatech”: the use of cost-effective methods and materials whilst maintaining high quality outcomes. He was the first in SA to introduce digital dentistry into the undergraduate curriculum and has continued to lecture on digital dentistry, including the associated materials science and the biological basis of oral rehabilitation.

Prof Owen was the longest serving member of the Board of the International College of Prosthodontists, culminating as President. He remains a member of the Academy of Prosthodontics of South Africa, is a Fellow of the International College of Dentistry and holds a Fellowship of the College of Dentistry (SA) of the Colleges of Medicine.

He has made over 150 presentations locally and internationally and has over 150 publications, including journal papers, books, chapters in books, manuals and other publications. He has been an Associate Editor of the International Journal of Prosthodontics, and is a reviewer for several international journals. He is currently President of the South African Dental Technicians Council.