EXPERT
Dr. Marina Funtik
Prosthodontist
Dr. Marina Funtik is a prosthodontist practicing in Colorado Springs, CO. Dr. Funtik specializes in the restoration and replacement of teeth. Prosthodontists maintain oral function, comfort and the appearance and health either with the natural teeth or the replacement of missing ones with maxillofacial tissues and artificial substances.
15 years
Experience
Dr. Marina Funtik
- Colorado Springs, CO
- UConn School of DentalMedicine
- Accepting new patients
No results found
How long does it take for partial dentures to settle?
Patial dentures can take up to 6mos and sometimes even to a full year to get accustomed to. Also frequent adjustments in that time period may be needed in order to eliminate sore READ MORE
Patial dentures can take up to 6mos and sometimes even to a full year to get accustomed to. Also frequent adjustments in that time period may be needed in order to eliminate sore spots or pressure areas caused by clasps or bite adjustments.
I knocked out my two front teeth. What's the procedure for implants?
Best is to preserve as much bone as possible. This means an additonal procedure needs to be done at the same time when pulling teeth called Socket Preservation. This will help READ MORE
Best is to preserve as much bone as possible. This means an additonal procedure needs to be done at the same time when pulling teeth called Socket Preservation. This will help stabilize and preserve as much bone as possible to then later be able to place implants.
What is a good treatment for gingivitis?
more frequent dental cleanings. Typical is every 6 months but sometimes patients need cleanings every 3 or every 4 months.
The crown over my molar cracked. What should I do?
Best is to seek a care of a dentist to see if crack is superficial enough to be able to save the tooth. Clinical evaluation by a dentist is a first step to then seek all options READ MORE
Best is to seek a care of a dentist to see if crack is superficial enough to be able to save the tooth. Clinical evaluation by a dentist is a first step to then seek all options on how best to help save the tooth.
Are dental bridges hard to keep clean?
Yes, I agree dental bridges can be more difficult to keep clean when compared to regular teeth. Our patients are really good with using waterpik and superfloss as adjuncts to their READ MORE
Yes, I agree dental bridges can be more difficult to keep clean when compared to regular teeth. Our patients are really good with using waterpik and superfloss as adjuncts to their brushing routine.
How long after a root canal can you get a permanent filling?
Permanent restoration (a new crown or a crown seal if existing crown is in good condition) should be done within a few weeks of getting a root canal. Crown protects root canal READ MORE
Permanent restoration (a new crown or a crown seal if existing crown is in good condition) should be done within a few weeks of getting a root canal. Crown protects root canal tooth. Tooth becomes brittle and is more likely to fracture if no permanent crown is placed on that tooth.
Can I whiten my teeth at home?
yes that is fine as long as it is done under supervision and monitoring of a licensed dentist. Ruling out periodontal disease before commencing bleaching is a highly important READ MORE
yes that is fine as long as it is done under supervision and monitoring of a licensed dentist. Ruling out periodontal disease before commencing bleaching is a highly important step and includes full clinical exam that only a licensed dentist can provide and to eliminate any underlying issues.
Do fillings need anesthesia?
Not all filings need anesthesia. Laser dentistry is now available as an alterative and sensation is very minimal. This also depends on patients and their pain tolerance. A good READ MORE
Not all filings need anesthesia. Laser dentistry is now available as an alterative and sensation is very minimal. This also depends on patients and their pain tolerance. A good rule of thumb is the bigger the filling one may need the higher the chance a patient will need anesthesia.
Can you fix gum recession with surgery?
Yes ! There are few surgical procedures that can fix gum recession. Success rates vary depending on technique type, underlying bone structure and volume and also health of the READ MORE
Yes ! There are few surgical procedures that can fix gum recession. Success rates vary depending on technique type, underlying bone structure and volume and also health of the gingival (gum) tissue. Success of any surgical procedure is highly dependant on proper oral hygiene of the patient.
Should I get dentures or a full mouth implant?
Implants from esthetics and also from functionality are better than dentures for sure. Please ensure you are medically a good candidate for implants before proceeding with this READ MORE
Implants from esthetics and also from functionality are better than dentures for sure. Please ensure you are medically a good candidate for implants before proceeding with this treatment.
Are all on 6 implants good?
6 implants for All-on-6 prosthesis are better than 4 implants for All-on-4 prosthesis. It is always a good idea to over-engineer your implant prosthesis foundation when thinking READ MORE
6 implants for All-on-6 prosthesis are better than 4 implants for All-on-4 prosthesis. It is always a good idea to over-engineer your implant prosthesis foundation when thinking into the future and thinking and planning long term.
What is the best treatment for gum bleeding?
Some patients need more frequent cleanings to get bleeding gums and gingivitis under control. In order to treat gum recession, gums have to be healthy first. Best to have your READ MORE
Some patients need more frequent cleanings to get bleeding gums and gingivitis under control. In order to treat gum recession, gums have to be healthy first. Best to have your dentist evaluate the cause of bleeding clinically and treat it first and then discuss best options for recession treatment.
Do I need a prosthodontic follow up after getting my dentures?
We recommend follow up every 6 months-1 year for complete dentures to check tissues for any sore spots, do oral cancer screening and also to clean them ultrasonically. Bite check READ MORE
We recommend follow up every 6 months-1 year for complete dentures to check tissues for any sore spots, do oral cancer screening and also to clean them ultrasonically. Bite check and wear pattern is also evaluated at this appointment. We check for candida albicans and go over home care. For partial dentures we recommend follow up every 6 months to check on teeth, just like a regular dental check up. If any gum issues are noted, then follow up could be 3 or 4 months to address gum issues.
Are these crackling sounds in my ear from TMJ?
Cracking noises in the TMJ are common. Even if there is no symptoms, your dentist should follow this closely, as pain could develop later. However, if there is pain already, I READ MORE
Cracking noises in the TMJ are common. Even if there is no symptoms, your dentist should follow this closely, as pain could develop later. However, if there is pain already, I usually recommend a specific night-time and sometimes even day-time splint to stabilize the TMJ joints. This is to prevent further damage to articular disc and to allow joints to heal.
How long do zirconia crowns last on front teeth?
Zirconia crowns are the latest and greatest of the new esthetic porcelains we have on the market today. They are also considered one the strongest. Bite issues and material thickness READ MORE
Zirconia crowns are the latest and greatest of the new esthetic porcelains we have on the market today. They are also considered one the strongest. Bite issues and material thickness should be primary considerations when talking about longevity of these materials. These crowns should last at least 5 years.
Are dental implants worth the money?
Dental Implants can be lifechanging from the standpoint of function and also esthetics. However, not everyone is a good implant candidate. Best to seek an advice of an expert dentist READ MORE
Dental Implants can be lifechanging from the standpoint of function and also esthetics. However, not everyone is a good implant candidate. Best to seek an advice of an expert dentist to evaluate each patient's situation and then determine what is best course of action.
Is bleeding gums serious?
Bleeding gums can have many causes. It is very important to visit your dentist at least twice a year to regularly check on your gums and pocket levels at every cleaning visit. READ MORE
Bleeding gums can have many causes. It is very important to visit your dentist at least twice a year to regularly check on your gums and pocket levels at every cleaning visit. Some patients may need more frequent visits if their periodontal pockets are deep.
What is a good treatment for swollen gums?
If you are experiencing swollen gums treatment would depend on the correct diagnosis by your dentist. Treatment could range from regular to deep cleaning or even a biopsy. Your READ MORE
If you are experiencing swollen gums treatment would depend on the correct diagnosis by your dentist. Treatment could range from regular to deep cleaning or even a biopsy. Your dentist should evaluate your individual condition first to then be able to perform the correct treatment.
What are my options for having a missing tooth replaced?
Replacing a missing tooth can be challenging. Implant or bridge options are the permanent solutions but depending on the surrounding bone and gum tissue one will be better suited READ MORE
Replacing a missing tooth can be challenging. Implant or bridge options are the permanent solutions but depending on the surrounding bone and gum tissue one will be better suited than the other. Always consult with your highly trained dentist to properly diagnose and treatment plan your individual needs. Implant success rates have increased tremendously in the last 10 years so ensure that you have all the information before deciding what is best for you.
Is there any medication to prevent tooth decay?
Yes! We use Featherstone Protocol in our office for patients with a high risk of decay. The patient needs a prescription from their dentist to:
STEP 1: Achieve targeted killing READ MORE
Yes! We use Featherstone Protocol in our office for patients with a high risk of decay. The patient needs a prescription from their dentist to:
STEP 1: Achieve targeted killing of harmful oral bacteria that cause tooth decay (streptococcus mutans)
STEP 2. Remineralize/harden soft spots
STEP 1: Achieve targeted killing of harmful oral bacteria that cause tooth decay (streptococcus mutans)
STEP 2. Remineralize/harden soft spots
