On March 11, 2019, the National Commission determined that the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists meets the “Requirements for Recognition of Dental Specialties.”
When we first visited The Dental Anesthesia Center, my child was experiencing severe tooth pain and multiple cavities. Dr. Sean M. Thoms and his team demonstrated excellent care, promptly assessing the situation and deciding to treat his teeth the next day. They came early in the morning, professionally addressing the cavities and placing a crown. They also followed up by phone to ensure my child was doing well. My baby is now pain-free,happy ,smiling, and sleeping soundly. This is truly a world-class dental center with an exceptional, caring team. Highly recommended.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and wonderful review! We’re truly grateful for your trust and so happy to hear your experience with our team was a positive one. It means a lot to know our care helped make things a little easier and brought smiles all around.
Carrie and the Dental Anesthesia Center have always been very professional and welcoming when having work done.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear you’ve had a positive experience with our team. We appreciate your trust and support!
I cannot say enough wonderful things about The Dental Anesthesia Center and Dr. Thoms. My 7-year-old, who has autism, recently had dental work done here and the experience exceeded expectations. The staff was incredibly kind, patient, and understanding of his needs. They took the time to make him and us feel comfortable, never rushed, and explained everything. I am so grateful for this office and the team that made my son's dental care possible. I would recommend The Dental Anesthesia Center and Dr Thoms to any parent, especially those with children who have special needs. They truly go above and beyond. ❤️
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and kind words! We’re truly grateful for your trust in our team and Dr. Thoms. Knowing your visit was a positive and comfortable experience means the world to us — it’s exactly what we strive for with every patient and family. 💙
Very patient with elderly patients. Very good experience.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! We’re pleased to know the visit was a positive experience.
My son has been a patient of Dr Michael Hoffman since he was 5 years old. He is now 21 years old. My son has diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and therefore I am cautious of who I select as a treatment provider. Dr. Hoffman’s office is professional, kind and I know they have his best interest at heart. I highly recommend Dr. Hoffman and staff to anyone seeking dental care.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We truly appreciate your trust in our team over the years.

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!