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.”

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry

Based on 109 reviews

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kerubel G.

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.

greg E.

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!

Whitney S.

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. 💙

Joy H.

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.

Carla B.

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.

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.

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.