Advanced Dental Care Quincy, MA - Oral Dental Surgeon

Along with good oral hygiene, there are other concerns that many patients that visit Dr. Stephen Matarazzo deal with. From TMJ to holistic dentistry, the doctor provides his patients with many options and treatments.

TMJ

TMJ, which stands for temporomandibular joint, is a joint in the jaw that can be troublesome for some patients. For some, it may be painful to move. It may lock up and cause problems. It can result in clicking and cracking sounds, and can cause pain in the mouth, jaw, neck, and head. Patients with continual issues with their TMJ are classified as having TMD, temporomandibular disorder. The jaw may be misaligned, the bone may rub against bone, and many problems can stem from this condition. Dentists such as Dr. Matarazzo can offer oral appliances to help alleviate the pain and problems associated with TMD and the TMJ. These appliances can help realign the jaw and reduce the pressure that can cause negative effects on the teeth. They use neuromuscular dentistry in order to realign the joint and muscles to get the proper bite and relieve the muscle tension.

Dr. Stephen Matarazzo Patient Review about dental care

This is one of our patients – Collin. Collin, how long have you been a patient here? I think it has been – I think we did the mouth guard was the first thing we did – about 6 months ago maybe a year, I acutely found you online....

Video Transcript

Hi this is Dr. Stephen Matarazzo this is one of our patients – Collin. Collin, how long have you been a patient here? I think it has been – I think we did the mouth guard was the first thing we did – about 6 months ago maybe a year. Yeah about a year. So when you came to me, how did you find me? I acutely found you online – I had some problems with my jaw and clenching at night and so I did some research online and found your name. And didn’t your dentist in any other town mention me too I think? Yeah Mike Meyers had mentioned my name and you checked me out online. Yeah I think that is right. So tell me what you r jaw situation was when you came to see me. Well I was having problems at night; I tried some with the mouth guards that you buy sort of CDS yeah. And they just they were not alleviating the strain in my jaw every morning I would wake up with a sort of muscle tense and tight and sort of painful, and I would not sleep so well, and that was certainly a problem. Then I came in here and we talked about it, and we talked about you and you mentioned that my jaw was not aligned and it was not sort of closing, and my back teeth were heading for my front teeth, and you said I was a perfect candidate for the mouth guard and after a little hemming and hawing on my part we deiced. It was a big decision – yes it was expensive. Yeah but I think it has been right. So you know I am sleep-in better, and my jaw is not fatigued or you know hurting in the morning and so it helps. So your jaw feels better and the muscles hurt a lot less? Yes and the key is how much you are wearing it. Do you wear it every night? I wear it every night – you are an excellent patient. I get concerned if I am away that I left it at home, I don’t want my jaw – I don’t want to wake up in the morning having that pain again, and I know that I am rubbing my teeth and I know that I am doing damage to them, and every dentist I have been to, said I am shaving off my back molars by doing that so I get concerned about that, but now I don’t have to. Excellent – I am glad you had success with it. I mean it is a big deal you did not know me when you came in too much, and you know it was a lot of money to get it fixed and it certainly seems like it is working out for you. Yeah but you know it certainly gets to a point where you need to do something about it you know. Yeah – well you are good, you didn’t delay you could have but you didn’t and you acted and it is working out for ya! Well thank you Collin, thank you

Non-Metal Fillings

Dr. Matarazzo has not used metal fillings for approximately 25 years. This is due to the fact that it is a dangerous and scary substance. Mercury is not safe, and can even be a problem for the staff in the dental office. Problems arise when mercury fillings are placed, and many times, there is decay underneath them that is undetectable by an x-ray. Due to these issues, additional problems may occur and further treatments may be necessary to address these conditions. Restorative treatments and cosmetic procedures may be needed once the tooth has gotten to the point of being destroyed by the mercury fillings. Patients can come to Dr. Matarazzo to receive non-metal fillings. He uses white composite filling that not only serves its purpose, but does so in a way that is cosmetically and aesthetically pleasing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Care

What does comprehensive dental care include beyond cleanings and exams?

Dental care goes beyond routine cleanings by addressing conditions that affect how your entire mouth functions. This can include evaluating your bite, treating jaw discomfort, replacing outdated restorations, and improving overall tooth structure. A comprehensive approach focuses on prevention as well as correction. By identifying small concerns early and understanding how different parts of your mouth work together, your dentist can recommend treatments that support long-term comfort, function, and stability rather than just temporary fixes.

How are TMJ issues connected to overall dental health?

The temporomandibular joint controls how your jaw moves throughout the day. When this joint is not functioning properly, it can affect more than just comfort. Imbalances may lead to uneven tooth wear, muscle fatigue, and strain that spreads to surrounding areas, such as the neck and shoulders. Over time, this can impact how your teeth come together and function. Addressing TMJ concerns early helps prevent additional stress on both the teeth and supporting structures.

What are the signs that I may have a TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorders can present in subtle ways at first. You might notice clicking, popping, or stiffness when opening your mouth. Other symptoms include jaw soreness, headaches, ear pressure, or difficulty chewing comfortably. Some patients also experience limited jaw movement or tension in the face and neck. Because these symptoms can vary, they are often overlooked. A professional evaluation can help determine whether these issues are related to joint dysfunction or another underlying cause.

How do oral appliances help with TMJ-related problems?

Oral appliances are designed to improve how the teeth and jaw come together, reducing strain on the joint and surrounding muscles. Worn at night or during specific times, they help guide the jaw into a more balanced position. This can reduce pressure from clenching or grinding and allow the muscles to relax. Over time, many patients notice decreased discomfort and improved jaw function with consistent use of a properly fitted appliance.

Why do some dentists recommend replacing old metal fillings?

Older metal fillings may not always provide the same level of protection as newer materials. Over time, they can expand, contract, or allow small gaps where bacteria may enter. Replacing them with modern alternatives can help improve the seal of the tooth and reduce the risk of hidden decay. Many patients also prefer tooth-colored materials for a more natural look that blends seamlessly with their smile.

Are non-metal fillings durable enough for everyday use?

Modern composite fillings are designed to handle normal chewing forces while bonding directly to the tooth structure. This bond can help support the remaining tooth and reduce the risk of fractures. While they may wear over time like any material, they perform reliably with proper care. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits help maintain their strength and ensure they continue to function effectively for years.

How does personalized dental care improve long-term outcomes?

Personalized care takes into account your specific dental history, habits, and goals rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. By tailoring treatments and recommendations to your needs, your dentist can address underlying issues more effectively. This approach often leads to better long-term results, fewer unexpected problems, and a more comfortable experience overall. It also helps patients stay more engaged in their care and maintain healthier smiles over time.

Whether you're removing mercury fillings or getting treatment for TMD, Dr. Matarazzo is happy to help! Contact his practice today if you are interested in learning more about dental care and conditions that can benefit from his caring demeanor and expertise.