What is Dental Sedation?

Sedated patients are conscious, can breathe on their own, and simply be able to respond to question. This is referred to as “Sedation Dentistry.”

I had an excellent experience with Dr. Behl and her entire team during my wisdom tooth extraction. I chose IV sedation, and it made all the difference. I was awake and aware throughout the procedure, but I felt completely relaxed and never experienced the panic or anxiety I usually have at the dentist. Dr. Behl and her staff were compassionate, professional, and attentive from start to finish, making sure I was comfortable every step of the way. If you have dental anxiety or avoid going to the dentist because of fear, I highly recommend Dr. Behl and her team. They provided exceptional care and made what I expected to be a stressful experience surprisingly calm and comfortable.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review and kind words! We’re honored by your recommendation and are so glad you had a positive experience with our team. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback!
All of the staff have been extremely incredible. Dr. Thoms was amazing & really helped calm me before my procedure. Dr. Thoms answered any & all questions I have had & was extremely understanding when it comes to having dental anxiety. Robyn was the best X-ray technician I have ever had. She felt personable but still extremely professional. Throughout my life I have been to numerous dentists in hopes of finding one that will take my extreme dental anxiety seriously & not make me feel bad for it. I have finally found my favorite dentist. The Dental Anesthesia Center is my #1 pick if I had to chose any dentist.
Response from the owner:Thanks for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re grateful for your trust in our team and are pleased to hear you felt supported and comfortable throughout your visit. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to continuing to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
Hands down the best dental office in the area! They have always taken care of me and been very accommodating. The Doctors are the BEST!!! I would HIGHLY recommend this office if you are looking for a dentist! 5+ stars all around.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review and recommendation! We’re grateful for your kind words and are thrilled to hear that our team has provided a positive experience. We appreciate your support and look forward to serving our community with exceptional care.
I started seeing this practice as a scared middle age woman that thought she was quickly on the way to being toothless. Years later now, still working with the amazing Dr Behl and her amazing staff, I have been able to continue with my present teeth. Alway kind, full of grace, mercy and humor!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re honored to be part of your dental journey and appreciate your kind words about Dr. Behl and our team.
We have been taking our son to Dental Anesthesia since 2019. He gets his dental treatment and blood work done at the same time. We find the staff and Dr. Thoms highly professional. They communicate well and provide excellent treatment/services. Getting blood work done during sedation helps us a lot.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re honored to be part of your family’s care. We appreciate your trust in us.

Sedation dentistry involves the administration of drugs (medications) that calm patients creating a drowsy, sleep-like state. It is important to understand that you are NOT asleep for sedation dentistry. A dentist is required to receive two days of additional training when administering pills orally. Intravenous (IV) Sedation requires at least 60 hours of training or a dentist can be trained as part of a residency program.

The method of sedation can be achieved by administrating oral medications, intravenous medications, or Nitrous Oxide “laughing gas”. Using the lightest level of sedation is minimal sedation. It involves a mild sedative, such as a Valium-like medication or Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas.) This kind of sedation requires no additional training for the dentist.

When you come in for your appointment Dr. Hoffmann, Dr. Thoms, or Dr. Behl will decide which level is best for you. We look forward to meeting you. Call us at (314) 862-7844 and one of our friendly team members will be happy to speak with you or simply make an appointment online.

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Who Can Benefit From Sleep Dentistry?

Patients undergoing extensive treatment, those with fear and anxiety, a low pain threshold, a sensitive gag reflex, special needs, or children, may all benefit from sedation dentistry.

  • Fear and Anxiety: Nearly half of the 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.
  • Low Pain Threshold: People perceive pain differently. Some individuals have difficulty getting numb. With general anesthesia and sedation techniques, the perception of pain can be altered. Patients can be virtually pain-free during treatment.
  • Sensitive Gag Reflex: Some patients may suffer from a severe gag reflex and are unable to have dental care completed with the use of local anesthetic. Using anesthesia services can eliminate the problems caused by an active gag reflex.
  • Extensive Treatment: Completing dental treatment under general anesthesia can eliminate the need for multiple visits.
  • Special Needs: Individuals with physical or mental disabilities can achieve complete dental care in a comfortable setting. Sleep dentistry provides a safe and effective way for special need patients to receive the dental treatment they need. Patients will have a complete exam, full mouth series of x-rays (pictures of teeth), and a thorough cleaning while under general anesthesia.
  • Young Children: Children who are experiencing anxiety and are unable to cooperate for needed dental treatment can benefit from anesthesia services.

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The first two board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.