Functional Esthetics co-owners, Phil Watkins and Kyle Swan, whose philosophy is
to provide exceptional quality and the most technologically advanced dental work.
Photo by Ray Bryant, Bryant Studios
cover feature
Old World Artistry
& New World Technology
Functional Esthetics
N
by Tina Cauller
ot everyone appreciates the difference between a very
modest product and a high-end luxury product, and
some may question the rationale for spending more.
However, for those who do appreciate the distinction, there is little question. A chef with a well-stocked kitchen may own an unassuming little knife from a big box store. Its value is in line with its
price tag and while serviceable, it is less than memorable. But
somewhere, in a special drawer, is a finely crafted, perfectly balanced Japanese Santoku knife, lovingly made of layered steel with
the same centuries-old techniques used to create the swords of
the samurai. Using it is a pleasure and it is a prized possession.
To the right person, its beauty, functionality, quality and longevity
are differences that matter and are well worth the price tag.
Similarly, comparing dental labs is not always a simple matter of
price. "We are a crown and bridge laboratory focused on complex
restorative, implant and cosmetic cases,” notes Kyle Swan, coowner of Functional Esthetics. “Fundamentally, the work of the
dental laborat