
Feb
Consider dental implants if you’ve experienced tooth loss and miss the benefits of a full, healthy smile. At Park Avenue Dental Care, we proudly offer implant services to patients in Homewood, Illinois, and nearby communities. Drs. Gregory Duffner, James Kreuz, and Alexander Dolinar, along with our team, are here to answer your questions about dental implants and help you make an informed decision regarding this transformative treatment.
Implants are small, titanium screws that function like tooth roots. They’re used to support artificial teeth after natural teeth go missing. Implants may replace any number of missing teeth to complete your smile.  Â
Getting implants requires oral surgery. The specialist we refer you to will make an incision in your gum to expose your jawbone and then drill a hole for implant placement. The number of implants you need will depend on your treatment. Once all the implants are in place, we’ll give them time to integrate with the bone tissue around them and heal. The healing process can take three to six months to complete. Afterward, we’ll attach abutments and your restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) to make your smile healthy and whole again. Â
The two main types of implants are endosteal and subperiosteal implants. Endosteal implants are the titanium screws placed inside your jawbone to support your new teeth. Subperiosteal implants are rarely used anymore. Posts are attached to the implants and rise above the gum tissue to provide support for replacement teeth. We also offer mini-implants for those patients who don’t have the bone volume for full-size implants. We’re happy to discuss these with you during your initial consultation for implant treatment.
Our surgeons prioritize your safety and comfort when performing implant surgery. They use a local anesthetic to prevent discomfort or pain and can combine anesthesia with sedation to keep you fully relaxed and comfortable in the dental chair. OTC medication is usually enough to manage post-op discomfort or soreness.Â
Implants can improve the quality of your smile by making your teeth stronger, more reliable, and aesthetically pleasing. Because artificial tooth roots anchor your new teeth in place, they stay grounded when you smile, laugh, talk, or chew. They’ll never come loose in your mouth to irritate your gums or embarrass you in social settings. Regarding appearance, we will create restorations that closely resemble natural teeth to restore your smile’s original charm and beauty.
Look no further than Park Avenue Dental Care in Homewood, IL. To kick-start your journey to a beautiful new smile, contact our team at (708) 792-2779 to schedule an implant treatment consultation.
Dr. James J. Kreuz, D.D.S., is a seasoned dentist with over 50 years of practice in Homewood, having graduated from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry. His extensive experience underscores his expertise in the field. Dr. Kreuz is a dedicated professional whose longstanding practice and commitment to patient care establish his authority and trustworthiness. Outside dentistry, he is a passionate musician, performing with the Joliet American Legion Band and other local groups. He has toured Europe with The Blue Lake International Band, showcasing his diverse talents and dedication to community involvement.
Dr. Gregory J. Duffner, D.D.S., is an esteemed dentist with a rich background in both physics and dentistry. He graduated from Loyola University with a physics degree and earned his dental degree from the University of Illinois. Practicing in Homewood since 1985, Dr. Duffner collaborates with Dr. Kreuz to provide exceptional dental care. A dedicated community advocate, he bicycles for the National MS Society and has organized significant charity rides, including a cross-country effort for Mercy Housing. Dr. Duffner’s expertise, community involvement, and commitment to philanthropy establish his authority and trustworthiness in the field.
Dr. Alexander J. Dolinar, DMD, brings over eight years of dental experience to our practice, including roles in community health and private prosthodontics. He graduated with honors from Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine, where he was a Class Representative for the Chicago Dental Society and a Planning Leader for Delta Sigma Delta Mission Trips. Dr. Dolinar holds a Master’s in Biology and a Bachelor’s in Molecular and Cellular Biology. He is actively involved in dental associations and has volunteered extensively, showcasing his commitment to advanced care and community service. His skills and compassionate approach ensure high-quality care for all patients.
Alexander J. Dolinar, DMD on LinkedIn
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We accept major credit cards, cash, and checks and offer 12-month interest-free plans through Care Credit. We are in-network with Delta Dental, Guardian, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. We accept PPO insurance with out-of-network fees and will file insurance for patients. Payment is due at the time of service.