St. Louis Dental Anxiety Dentist
If you are fearful of the dentist, don’t worry; you are not alone!
Dental anxiety affects millions of people, and at The Dental Anesthesia Center, we understand that past experiences, fear of pain, or general anxiety can make dental visits feel overwhelming. As St. Louis’s leading dental anxiety specialists, we’ve helped thousands of fearful patients receive the care they need in absolute comfort.
Our board-certified sedation dentists create an environment where anxiety melts away, whether you’re dealing with dental phobia, haven’t visited a dentist in years, or feel nervous about dental procedures. Here, you’ll find a judgment-free space where your concerns are heard, your comfort is prioritized, and your path to better oral health is guided by understanding professionals who specialize in caring for anxious patients.
A Comfortable Solution
Dr. Michael Hoffmann and Dr. Sean Thoms are general dentists certified by the Missouri Dental Board in General Anesthesia and Deep Sedation. Dr. Behl is a general dentist who has completed a hospital dentistry residency and has received additional training in sedation. They understand that fear and have a comfortable solution.
Nearly half of all people with dental problems avoid dental care because of their fears and anxiety. Modern, safe anesthesia techniques allow the fearful patient to have dental procedures accomplished without the anxiety associated with dentistry.
Sedation can eliminate multiple visits. After years of neglect, oral health can be restored in as little as one visit. Oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia services are available for all types of dental care, including fillings, crowns and bridges, root canals, gum therapy, implants, cosmetic dentistry, and more. The DIAGNOdent cavity-detecting laser, Velscope light (for cancer screening), and the All-on-Four implant denture are examples of cutting-edge technology. Sleep Apnea appliances are also available.
How We Help Anxious Patients
- Personalized anxiety management techniques
- Gentle, patient-focused approach
- Various sedation options to suit individual needs
- Calm, welcoming office environment
- Clear communication throughout your visit
St. Louis Dental Phobia Dentist
If you have not been to the dentist because you suffer from moderate to severe dental phobia, Dr. Michael J. Hoffmann, Dr. Sean M. Thoms, and Dr. Behl are here to help. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we value our patient relationships and prioritize delivering the gentle dental care you deserve.
Questions answered
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re searching for the best dentist for anxiety near me, The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis offers specialized care for patients with dental fear, anxiety, or phobia. Our board-certified sedation dentists use advanced techniques—including IV sedation and general anesthesia—to ensure a calm, comfortable, and judgment-free experience. Whether you’ve avoided the dentist for years or feel nervous about a specific procedure, we’re here to help you feel safe and supported every step of the way.
We understand. Give us a call, and our friendly staff will guide you through the process step-by-step, addressing your concerns without any pressure.
Sedation dentistry is very safe when administered by qualified professionals like Dr. Hoffmann, Dr. Thoms, and Dr. Behl. We’ll review your medical history and explain all options thoroughly.
Our sedation techniques ensure you’ll be comfortable throughout your procedure. Many patients report feeling no discomfort and have little memory of the treatment.
The duration varies depending on the type of sedation used. With oral sedation, you may feel drowsy for a few hours after the procedure. With IV sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home and should rest for the remainder of the day.
This depends on the type of sedation. For some forms, you may need to fast for several hours before your appointment. We’ll provide detailed instructions when you schedule your visit.
Almost any dental procedure can be performed under sedation, from routine cleanings to more complex treatments like root canals or extractions. We’ll discuss the best option for your specific needs.
Choosing Your Sedation Dentist in St. Louis
When selecting a sedation dentist, credentials and experience matter. The Dental Anesthesia Center stands out with Dr. Michael Hoffmann and Dr. Sean Thoms’ Missouri Dental Board certifications in General Anesthesia and Deep Sedation, as well as Dr. Behl’s specialized training in Hospital Dentistry. We’re proud to be the first two board-certified dental anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.
What Sets Us Apart:
Advanced Qualifications
- Board certification in sedation dentistry
- Hospital-based training
- Ongoing education in the latest sedation techniques
- Specialized expertise in treating anxious patients
Comprehensive Safety Measures
- State-of-the-art monitoring equipment
- Emergency preparedness protocols
- Experienced support staff
- Rigorous safety standards
Patient-Focused Approach
- A thorough medical history review
- Personalized sedation plans
- Clear communication throughout the treatment
- Multiple sedation options (IV sedation, conscious sedation, general anesthesia)
- Insurance coordination and financing options
Our sedation dentistry services help patients overcome dental anxiety while ensuring maximum safety and comfort. We welcome questions about our qualifications and approach to sedation dentistry.
Contact Us Today
If dental fear has kept you from care, call us or request a consultation — no pressure, and no judgment.