Dental pain fear is real, and it’s one of the most common reasons people avoid care. Learn how patients with severe anxiety get through treatment with us.
If the thought of dental pain keeps you from picking up the phone and scheduling care, you’re not alone — and you’re not overreacting. Dental fear rooted in anticipated pain is one of the most common reasons people delay or avoid treatment entirely, sometimes for years.
Understanding why that fear exists and what today’s options actually look like can make the difference between continued avoidance and finally getting the care you need.
Dr Thoms and his team are phenomenal. No question, the absolute best possible option for my child when he needed work done while sleeping (age based). While this option is not inexpensive, this set up of have anesthesiology in-house allowed us to get his mouth healthy when a traditional pediatric dentist could/would not. I am a parent that asks a lot of questions on behalf of my toddler’s care and at no point did I feel judged for this, nor was I rushed during my evaluation process during the consultation. Although the procedure is not one I would like to repeat for my child, my husband and I were both so pleased with how well Dr. Thoms communicated and how he clearly cared for our son’s wellbeing (both physical and emotional during a less than comfortable visit). Cannot recommend the back of house team more highly.
My one detraction is the FOH staff (not everyone) were not nearly as pleasant. I would like to communicate that while their day-to-day is very routine for them, being in that office as a parent is very scary for some people in their office and a little bit of kindness goes along way. I do recall, having a very pleasant conversation with Rebecca, but otherwise everyone else was on the apathetic side, in my personal opinion. That said you’ll notice that I still am leaving a five star review because the dental staff really just knocked out of the park, but as a parent I want to encourage you to look past any rudeness you may experience over email or on the phone because Dr. Thom’s is really that excellent.
Very nice very convenient for me great people working
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you had a positive experience with our team. We truly appreciate your 5-star review!
The staff is always compassionate and explain all the steps of the procedure. This office has been a God send for me because otherwise I would have let my teeth fall into further disrepair. I highly recommend this office!!!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We’re so glad our team could help make your experience feel comfortable and supportive. We truly appreciate your 5-star review!
Searching for a new dental clinic is challenging for someone who has
dental anxiety, fear, and traumatic experiences in a dental chair. The staff and doctors at the Dental Anesthesia Center were immediately very welcoming. Dr. Thoms put together a very detailed plan to repair and replace the previous work that I had in the past that was now causing problems. Putting my faith in him was the best thing that I could have done for my situation. I am more than completely satisfied with all of the extensive dental work that I’ve had with Dr.Thoms. I had my fourth sleep dentistry experience yesterday and I’m very happy with my results. I highly recommend this practice and truly want to give them more than five stars! Thank you for giving me back my health and confidence.
I adding to this post because of my visit today with the best dental hygienist Delaina and my exam with Dr. Biehl. I have truly never been to such a caring and supportive dental group. Everyone is always conscientious of my needs and knows that I have issues with anxiety. I am always calm when I am sitting in the chair because of their kindness. I am so pleased with the Dental anesthesia center. There needs to be more than five stars. Thank you, everyone.
Response from the owner:We know it isn’t always easy to find a dental office where you feel at ease, so your words mean the world to us. We’re so glad you feel comfortable with our team and truly appreciate your trust and recommendation!
I am unusually tense about my appointments. However, from the moment I checked in I relaxed. The staff was welcoming and assuring, and helped me to relax completely. Dr. Hofmann is superb. He is by far the best dentist and dental surgeon I have ever ever experienced.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad our team helped create a welcoming and comforting experience. We appreciate you sharing your feedback!
Why the Fear of Dental Pain Feels So Overwhelming
Fear of pain at the dentist isn’t irrational. It’s often learned. A difficult childhood experience, an unexpected moment of discomfort during a past procedure, or even secondhand stories from family and friends can wire the brain to associate dental care with pain and loss of control. For some patients, the anticipation of pain is far more distressing than any actual sensation — the waiting, the sounds, the not knowing what comes next.
This anticipatory anxiety can be physically real: elevated heart rate, shallow breathing, muscle tension, and even the urge to flee. Acknowledging that these responses are genuine — not dramatic or embarrassing — is the first step toward finding care that actually works for you.
What “Getting Through Treatment” Looks Like at a Specialty Practice
At a practice like The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, getting through treatment doesn’t mean gritting your teeth and hoping for the best. It means having options that are medically appropriate for your level of fear and your treatment needs.
For mild to moderate anxiety, nitrous oxide and oral sedation can take the edge off significantly. Many patients are surprised to find that what they feared most — the anticipation — dissolves quickly once they feel calm and supported.
For severe dental anxiety, IV sedation or general anesthesia administered by a qualified dental anesthesiologist creates a very different experience. Patients often complete multiple procedures in a single visit while remaining comfortable throughout, with little to no memory of the appointment.
No level of sedation replaces the importance of feeling heard and respected before you ever sit in the chair. The conversations that happen beforehand — about your history, your fears, your specific concerns — are part of what makes treatment possible for highly anxious patients.
Practices that specialize in anxious and medically complex patients approach consultations differently. There’s no judgment, no rushing, and no minimizing of what you’ve been through. The goal is to understand your situation completely before recommending any approach.
You Don’t Have to Push Through Alone
Dental pain fear has kept millions of people from the care they genuinely need. But “getting through it” doesn’t have to mean white-knuckling your way through an appointment. With the right team, the right setting, and the right level of support, treatment can feel manageable — even for patients who haven’t been to a dentist in a decade or more.
If fear has been standing between you and your dental health, a conversation is a good place to start.
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The first two board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.
