May
You glance in the mirror and catch that space in your smile again. It’s frustrating—and fixable. The team at Park Avenue Dental Care in Homewood, Illinois, led by Drs. James J. Kreuz, Gregory J. Duffner, and Alexander Dolinar provide solutions like a single tooth denture that looks and feels like the real thing.
Partial dentures are custom-made to fill the gaps left by missing teeth. When you’re missing front teeth, they’re built to blend in with your natural smile—teeth, gums, all of it. They attach to your remaining teeth using tiny connectors. A snug fit matters. That’s what makes them feel like yours.
A dental bridge stays put—it’s cemented onto nearby teeth that get crowns. Think of it like a fixed patch. Partial dentures, on the other hand, are removable. They come out at night, clean easily, and work better when several teeth are missing or if neighboring teeth aren’t strong enough for crowns.
There’s no magic number. You can replace one, three, or several front teeth with a partial. It just depends on what’s left to anchor it. A full denture might make more sense if too many teeth are missing or too loose. A dentist’s exam is the best way to know for sure.
Getting used to partials takes a little time. Your mouth needs to adjust. Start by wearing them in short stretches, practicing talking, and sticking to soft foods at first. The team checks in and helps ensure everything fits well, making the process smoother.
Rinse them after meals. Brush them daily with a denture-safe cleaner. Don’t use hot water—it can warp the fit. Soak them overnight to keep them clean and moist. And don’t skip checkups. We keep an eye on how your mouth and denture are getting along.
If partial dentures don’t feel like the right fit for you, a couple of other options can step in. Here’s a quick look at what else is available:
Your mouth, health, and goals all matter when choosing the right solution. A dentist can help sort through the pros and cons and find what fits you best.
Call Park Avenue Dental Care to get started. One of our team members will discuss your needs and help you book a time that works for you. Drs. Kreuz, Duffner, and Dolinar provide thoughtful, realistic care built around your goals. Call (708) 792-2779 or visit us at 18040 Park Avenue, Homewood, IL, 60430. One call, one visit—back to feeling like yourself.
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.
Gregory J. Duffner, DDS on LinkedIn
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
What Our Patients Are Saying
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.



