Dental Anesthesiology Becomes the 10th Dental Specialty Recognized by ADA

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On March 11, 2019, the National Commission determined that the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists meets the “Requirements for Recognition of Dental Specialties.”

Dental Anesthesiology St. Louis
We absolutely love the Dental Anesthesia Center. From the staff to the doctors - everyone is amazing. They are caring, kind and efficient.
A remarkably excellent experience everytime
My son needs anesthesia for any dental procedures. Dr. Thoms and staff always meet our needs. Cannot recommend highly enough
This staff and these doctors are patient and kind and treat their patients with dignity. The doctors to a great job and go above and beyond.
Dr.Hoffmann and his staff are absolutely the most amazing people to have working on your smile and your health, I am a joyful person who never smiled until now… from the moment you walk in and meet Rebekah and go back and meet Richell and meeting Dr.Hoffmann 🙌🏽 all the way till you meet Cheri at the end… take it from someone who hates the dentist, I love this place!!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5 stars and the big smiles! We’re so glad you felt welcomed and supported by our team—your kind words truly made our day.
I’ve been going here for probably 20 years now. The only dentist I will go to. I have always had a fear of dentistry but these people get it and take care of me. Thanks!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and long-time trust in our team! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

In September 2018, the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists submitted an application to the National Commission. In February 2019, the review committee considered all of the information to see if dental anesthesiology met all the requirements for specialty recognition. Finally, at it’s meeting on March 11, the National Commission granted official recognition to dental anesthesiology as a dental specialty.

What is a Dental Specialty

According to the ADA, a dental specialty is a particular “area of dentistry that has been formally recognized by the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards as meeting the specified Requirements for Recognition of Dental Specialties and National Certifying Boards for Dental Specialties.”

In order to qualify for specialty recognition, a sponsoring organization has to meet the 6 requirements specified by the “Requirements for Recognition of Dental Specialties.” They have to be able to prove that they are a distinct and well-defined field that requires unique knowledge and skills beyond the common ones that dental school graduates possess. In addition, they have to prove that their field requires advanced knowledge and skills and that it scientifically contributes new research and knowledge in both the profession and field.

What are the Other 9 Dental Specialties?

Dental anesthesiology joins the following 9 dental specialties:

  • Dental Public Health
  • Endodontics
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Oral Medicine and Pathology
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology
  • Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Periodontics
  • Prosthodontics

These dental specialties are recognized to protect the public, nurture the art of science in dentistry, and improve the quality of care.

The Dental Anesthesia Center

We are a state-of-the-art dental facility for patients who require general anesthesia, deep sedation, or oral sedation for their dental care. Young children unable to cooperate and individuals with mental or physical disabilities can benefit from these services.

Dr. Hoffmann and Dr. Thoms completed residencies in hospital dentistry and dental anesthesiology. Both are the first two Dental Anesthesiologist board certified in Deep Sedation in the state of Missouri.

Call us today to schedule your appointment at (314) 862-7844. We look forward to meeting you!

Updated: March 28, 2025

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