A good oral hygiene routine is the first step toward a white smile!
A bright, white smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or want to feel more confident, teeth whitening can be a game-changer. At The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we specialize in sedation and sleep dentistry to help our patients feel comfortable, but we also want to help you maintain your smile at home.
I have NEVER had a positive experience with dentist…until now!! I was mind blown how kind the staff was, not just to me but to everyone! I have debilitating anxiety when it comes to dentists because of bad previous experiences, so I was very nervous. But, all the staff, including Dr. Thom, were very gentle, kind, and understanding. They took time to listen to all my concerns and address them, helping to put me at ease. I was also amazed how professional the whole office ran and how completely reliable they were. They easily guided me through the process and everything went so smoothly, including my sedation. I have never been treated so kindly by any dental office before, I was struggling to believe I wasn’t in some kind of dream. But. They really were that nice.
My recovery from sedation and all
The dental work they did to save my tooth was amazing, not a single issue! Dr. Thom even called personally to check on me a day later.
Coming back to put my permanent crown in was the same experience. They were all so kind,
Good about explaining everything they were doing and make the experience light and dare I say…fun.
I would drive 2.5 hours again in a heartbeat to do my work here. Best dental experience I’ve ever
had hands down!!!!!!! Thank you Dr. Thom for giving my life and tooth back. I’m so excited to not be in so much excruciating pain anymore!
Response from the owner:We can’t thank you enough for your kind and heartfelt words. Our entire team is dedicated to creating a gentle, supportive, and positive experience for every patient, so it means the world to hear your visit felt that way. We’re so glad you felt cared for and comfortable throughout the process, and we truly appreciate you making the trip to see us. Thank you for trusting us—it’s an honor to care for patients like you!
Dr. Hoffmann and his team takes great care of my special needs daughter. We have been coming here for over 20 years. The staff is so kind and patient with her and explains everything to help her stay calm.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words and for trusting our team for so many years. We’re honored to care for your family and appreciate the opportunity to make each visit a positive experience.
I have had the best experience with Dr Behl and her staff! I have awful dental anxiety from some past experiences and they are so kind and supportive. Rebecca is incredible to work with. I highly recommend them to everyone I know!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words! We’re happy to know you felt supported and comfortable during your visit. Our team strives to create a welcoming environment for everyone, and we truly appreciate your recommendation.
We always receive excellent care at the Dental Anesthesia Center.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We truly appreciate your trust in our team and are grateful for the opportunity to provide care.
Our adult daughter has cerebral palsy and requires being fully sedated when having anything done. The DAC was such a positive experience. Dr Hoffmann and his staff were kind and did great explaining things. As a mom, I had a lot of questions about how certain things would be done as usually she’s in her chair when getting examined at her local dentist and they had everything under control including transferring from her chair to the dentist chair and keeping her secured in the dentist chair as well as keeping her neck and legs comfortable. Many thanks to them!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re grateful for your trust and happy to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Our goal is always to provide compassionate, attentive care in a safe and comfortable environment. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

1. Brush and Floss Regularly
Proper oral hygiene is the foundation of any teeth-whitening routine. Brushing twice daily and flossing once daily helps remove surface stains and plaque, which can dull the natural brightness. Opt for a toothpaste designed for whitening that contains mild abrasives to scrub away surface stains gently.
Tip: Use an electric toothbrush for a more thorough clean. They are more effective in removing plaque and surface stains than manual brushes.
2. Avoid Stain-Causing Foods and Beverages
Certain foods and drinks are notorious for causing stains on your teeth. Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries are just a few culprits that can leave your teeth looking less than their best. Acidic foods can also weaken your enamel, making it more susceptible to staining.
Tip: If you indulge in these foods or drinks, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize staining, or drink through a straw to reduce contact with your teeth.
3. Consider Professional Whitening Treatments
While many over-the-counter whitening products are available, professional whitening treatments offer faster, more noticeable results. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we offer safe and effective whitening options under the supervision of our dental professionals. This ensures that you get the brightest smile possible without damaging your enamel.
Tip: Schedule a consultation with us to discuss the best whitening treatment for your needs, whether an in-office procedure or custom take-home trays.
4. Use Whitening Strips and Gels Sparingly
Over-the-counter whitening strips and gels are popular because they are convenient and can deliver results. However, overusing these products can lead to tooth sensitivity and even damage your enamel.
Tip: Follow the product instructions carefully and limit use to the recommended time frame to protect your teeth.
5. Rinse with Mouthwash
Using a whitening mouthwash can help keep your smile bright between professional treatments. These mouthwashes help remove surface stains and contain ingredients that fight bacteria and strengthen teeth.
Tip: Choose a mouthwash with hydrogen peroxide for whitening benefits, and make sure it’s alcohol-free to avoid drying out your mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and stains.
6. Stay Hydrated and Snack on Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
Drinking plenty of water keeps you hydrated and helps wash away food particles that can lead to staining. In addition, crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery naturally scrub your teeth as you chew, helping to remove surface stains.
Tip: Incorporate water and crunchy fruits into your daily routine to keep your teeth clean and reduce the need for whitening treatments.
How The Dental Anesthesia Center Can Help
Maintaining a bright, white smile requires good oral hygiene, smart lifestyle choices, and when needed, professional whitening treatments. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we are committed to helping you achieve your ideal smile in a comfortable, stress-free environment. Contact us today to learn more about our teeth whitening services or to schedule your next appointment!