About the Dentists
New Paragraph
Meet Dr. Aruna Rajagopalan
Dr. Raj grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. She attended Parkway North High School, Saint Louis University earning a Bachelors Degree in Chemistry, and University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. Dr. Raj believes the most important attribute of dentistry is compassion for her patients. Her goal is to deliver excellent dentistry and makes sure her patients are as comfortable as they can be.
To keep up with the evolving trends of dentistry and technology, she attends continuing education courses and dental conferences in order to offer the most advanced and personalized dental care possible. In addition to delivering technically excellent dentistry, Dr. Raj thinks it is very important to have strong communication with her patients and making sure they understand the treatment plan. She does everything she can to minimize discomfort for her patients while giving them the best dental care they need. Her aim is satisfying her patient to the fullest.
Dr. Raj has volunteered in Honduras Dental Outreach Program in San Pedro Sula, Honduras through the UMKC Outreach Program. This program provided free dental care to adults and children with operative, endodontic, and oral surgery needs. Dr. Raj treated approximately 10-15 patients per day, working eight-hour shifts in non-air-conditioned, makeshift clinic stations; collaborated with team of oral healthcare providers to ensure that each patient received comprehensive care.
Dr. Raj also volunteered for the Give Kids A Smile in February 2009, offering free dental work to children of families who cannot afford it. In addition, she worked at the Health Fair at the St. Louis Gandhi Center in March 2009, providing free dental screenings for the Indian community.
Outside of her work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family. Reading and watching television and movies are another favorite pastime. She enjoys the many different cultures St. Louis has to provide and is looking forward to meeting the many people from all walks of life in the office.
We are thrilled to have Dr. Raj join our team!
*
Meet Dr. Stephen M Matthews
Dr. Matthew’s philosophy is to take the time to communicate with his patients. It is very important to determine exactly what they want. He is educated in all of the most advanced procedures available so that he can explain all of the options. He makes sure that his patients understand all of their choices and the financial investment that they will be making. No one likes surprises. Together they decide the all around best way to take care of them.
Once they have decided the course of treatment, Dr. Matthews believes in doing everything to make the patient relaxed and comfortable. He believes his patients are his best form of advertising. If you had a great experience and a beautiful result, you’ll not only come back but you’ll tell your friends.
Dr. Matthews' education began at Parkway West ’79, Mizzou ’83 - Biology, and finally he graduated UMKC Dental School ’87.
He has always exceeded state requirements for continuing education focusing on cosmetic procedures, veneers, implants, endodontics, and oral surgery, dentures, pharmacology, and sterilization procedures.
Personal: Married to Julie. Together they are very active in outdoors-biking, hiking, camping, golf, sprint triathlons.
Proud of: Co-founded Project Hope. They provided free dental care for underprivileged children of Washington County, MO.
Testimonials:
“I’ve survived a double mastectomy and an abusive husband yet I was terrified to see a dentist. I wouldn’t even sit in Dr. Matthews chair when I first met him. He was so patient with me. He gave me back the smile I had when I was young. Dr. Matthews is so special to me. I hug him every time I see him.”
Mary P. Potosi, MO
“I was a patient of Dr. Matthews before I moved to Huntsville, AL. I finally decided to do something I had wanted for years. I was born without certain teeth and was embarrassed to smile. I trust Dr. Matthews and had seen some of the smiles he restored. I decided that I would make the journey back to St. Louis. What a great decision. I get compliments all of the time. I’m thrilled! Steve is a good friend.”
Rick C. Huntsville, AL