At The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we specialize in sedation and sleep dentistry for children with special needs.
Caring for a child with special needs comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to healthcare. Dental visits, in particular, can be overwhelming for children with sensory sensitivities, developmental delays, or medical conditions. That’s where sedation dentistry becomes a game-changer.
I have NEVER had a positive experience with dentist…until now!! I was mind blown how kind the staff was, not just to me but to everyone! I have debilitating anxiety when it comes to dentists because of bad previous experiences, so I was very nervous. But, all the staff, including Dr. Thom, were very gentle, kind, and understanding. They took time to listen to all my concerns and address them, helping to put me at ease. I was also amazed how professional the whole office ran and how completely reliable they were. They easily guided me through the process and everything went so smoothly, including my sedation. I have never been treated so kindly by any dental office before, I was struggling to believe I wasn’t in some kind of dream. But. They really were that nice.
My recovery from sedation and all The dental work they did to save my tooth was amazing, not a single issue! Dr. Thom even called personally to check on me a day later.
Coming back to put my permanent crown in was the same experience. They were all so kind, Good about explaining everything they were doing and make the experience light and dare I say…fun.
I would drive 2.5 hours again in a heartbeat to do my work here. Best dental experience I’ve ever had hands down!!!!!!! Thank you Dr. Thom for giving my life and tooth back. I’m so excited to not be in so much excruciating pain anymore!
Response from the owner:We can’t thank you enough for your kind and heartfelt words. Our entire team is dedicated to creating a gentle, supportive, and positive experience for every patient, so it means the world to hear your visit felt that way. We’re so glad you felt cared for and comfortable throughout the process, and we truly appreciate you making the trip to see us. Thank you for trusting us—it’s an honor to care for patients like you!
Dr. Hoffmann and his team takes great care of my special needs daughter. We have been coming here for over 20 years. The staff is so kind and patient with her and explains everything to help her stay calm.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words and for trusting our team for so many years. We’re honored to care for your family and appreciate the opportunity to make each visit a positive experience.
I have had the best experience with Dr Behl and her staff! I have awful dental anxiety from some past experiences and they are so kind and supportive. Rebecca is incredible to work with. I highly recommend them to everyone I know!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words! We’re happy to know you felt supported and comfortable during your visit. Our team strives to create a welcoming environment for everyone, and we truly appreciate your recommendation.
We always receive excellent care at the Dental Anesthesia Center.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We truly appreciate your trust in our team and are grateful for the opportunity to provide care.
Our adult daughter has cerebral palsy and requires being fully sedated when having anything done. The DAC was such a positive experience. Dr Hoffmann and his staff were kind and did great explaining things. As a mom, I had a lot of questions about how certain things would be done as usually she’s in her chair when getting examined at her local dentist and they had everything under control including transferring from her chair to the dentist chair and keeping her secured in the dentist chair as well as keeping her neck and legs comfortable. Many thanks to them!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re grateful for your trust and happy to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Our goal is always to provide compassionate, attentive care in a safe and comfortable environment. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.
Why Dental Care Is Crucial for Children with Special Needs
Children with physical, emotional, behavioral, or developmental conditions often face higher risks of:
Diet, certain medications, or oral motor challenges can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Difficulty brushing or flossing effectively.
Anxiety or trauma from past healthcare experiences.
Difficulty communicating dental pain or discomfort.
Without consistent care, minor issues can turn into serious health problems. That’s why finding a dentist who makes visits stress-free and safe is so important.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax or sleep during dental procedures. It’s beneficial for patients who:
Have severe dental anxiety or fear.
Cannot remain still for long periods.
Have involuntary movements or behavioral conditions.
Need extensive or complex dental treatments.
At DAC, we offer several levels of sedation—each administered under the care of trained professionals.
Types of Sedation We Offer
Mild Sedation
A light medication (often nitrous oxide) helps reduce anxiety while the child remains awake and responsive.
Moderate Sedation
Children may be drowsy or even drift off to sleep, but can still respond to touch or sound.
Ideal for patients who cannot tolerate any stimulation or have complex medical or behavioral needs. The child is fully asleep, and the procedure is performed in a controlled, hospital-grade setting with continuous monitoring.
How Sedation Dentistry Helps Children with Special Needs
Children who’ve had previous negative experiences or are hypersensitive to sounds, lights, or touch can avoid triggering situations altogether.
Allows for Comprehensive Care in One Visit
Instead of multiple appointments that increase stress, sedation enables the dentist to complete all necessary treatments at once.
Prevents Physical Discomfort or Injury
For children with involuntary movements or physical challenges, sedation ensures their safety and comfort during the procedure.
Builds Long-Term Trust in Dental Care
Positive early experiences can create confidence and help make dental visits part of a healthy routine.
What Parents Can Expect at DAC
We provide a personalized approach for every child, including:
Pre-visit consultations to discuss medical history and comfort needs.
Coordination with pediatricians and specialists.
Full explanation of sedation options and safety protocols.
A gentle, welcoming environment focused on reducing sensory overload.
We also encourage parents to stay with their child before sedation and be present as they wake up.
Why Choose The Dental Anesthesia Center?
Board-certified professionals in dental anesthesia
Specializing in treating children with autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, and other needs
Trusted by families across Missouri for over 20 years
Fluent communication with caregivers throughout the process
We’re not just a dental office—we’re a place where families feel safe, supported, and understood.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re searching for a “special needs pediatric dentist near me” or a team that genuinely understands dental anxiety, we’re here for you. Located in St. Louis, we proudly serve families across Missouri and neighboring states.
