I’m Terrified of the Dentist – What Are My Options?

The good news? You have options! Modern dentistry has evolved to provide comfortable, pain-free, and anxiety-free experiences.

If the mere thought of sitting in a dentist’s chair makes your heart race, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is a real and common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether your fear stems from a past bad experience, a fear of pain, or just general uneasiness, avoiding the dentist can lead to serious oral health problems.

Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to discuss your sedation options and schedule a consultation. Your smile—and your peace of mind—are worth it!

Call (314) 862-7844

Schedule Appointment

Excellent

The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry4.9

Based on 204 reviews

See all reviews

review us on

Monica S.

Best decision I ever made was coming here. Highly recommend. The front office is great, Lena is awesome and docs are so good. Plus you get sweet glasses while they work 😎

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! We’re thrilled to hear you had a great experience with our team. And we’re glad you enjoyed the stylish shades too! 😎 We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback.

Autumn O.

LOVE the Dental Anesthesia Center! The staff is wonderful and a shout out to Dr Thomas!

Marshall G.

Always a team effort of caregiving based on need state - mental and dental, the doctors have a first class practice at 950 Francis Place. I’ve never heard a judgmental word spoken. They guide you in planning your visit and follow through on the execution every time. Just put your trust in the prevention, treatment and care you’re guaranteed to receive. Your health will benefit and any anxieties or physical limitations can be overcome. Oral care at home (or lack thereof) cannot meet 100% of your needs. The Dental Anesthesia Center will complete it.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review and kind words. We are honored by your trust in our team and appreciate you recognizing our commitment to compassionate, judgment-free care. Providing a safe, supportive experience for every patient is always our goal. Thank you for choosing The Dental Anesthesia Center!

Jen M.

My sweet daughter has Autism, and was unable to work with a typical dentist. She must be sedated for dental cleanings, which can be scary for both of us. The team here is always very warm and understanding. They’re patient and willing to help us when she is struggling. Dr. Thoms is so helpful and kind. We’ve seen him for several years now, and I trust him and his team completely. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and trust in our team over the years. We’re so grateful to be part of your family’s care and truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to our team!

Bill D.

I am so impressed with this Place. The staff is super friendly and explains everything in great detail and really takes their time with their patients. I came here after 15+ years of not having Dental insurance or the means to see a Dentist. Needless to say, my teeth were in pretty bad shape, and I needed a deep periodontal cleaning. When I went in for consultation back in February I was totally nervous, anxious had no clue what to expect. I just knew that I needed to a tooth that was falling out pulled and needed to do something about my teeth. After talking with a staff member and Dr. Hoffmann I felt totally at ease. Both my procedures in Feb and May went incredibly well and I woke up from both with an incredible smile. I came back today for follow up and cleaning my Hygienist was awesome I still had some sensitivity around my front teeth and when she noticed I flinched she stopped and said do you need break, or do you want me to put some numbing jell on your front teeth. After we got done, I had a lot of questions about the proper way to floss, what type of tooth paste I should use for sensitive teeth etc and she really took the time to answer all my questions. If you have been putting off dental work because of anxiety, I encourage you to check this place out. The staff truly cares about their clients.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review and kind words. We’re so glad you felt informed, supported, and cared for throughout your visits. Helping patients feel comfortable and confident in their dental care means so much to our team. We truly appreciate your trust!

Understanding Dental Anxiety: Why Are You Afraid?

Dental fear can come from various sources, including:

• Past traumatic experiences
• Fear of pain or needles
• Loss of control in the dental chair
• Embarrassment about the state of your teeth
• Sensitivity to sounds, smells, or sensations in a dental setting

Recognizing the root cause of your fear is the first step in managing it effectively.

Options for Managing Dental Anxiety

1. Find a Dentist Who Specializes in Anxiety & Sedation Dentistry

Not all dentists approach fearful patients with the same level of care and understanding. Choosing a sedation or sleep dentistry specialist—like those at The Dental Anesthesia Center—ensures you receive compassionate, customized care tailored to your comfort level.

2. Sedation Dentistry: Relax Through Your Visit

Sedation dentistry is one of the most effective ways to manage fear and anxiety. Various levels of sedation are available depending on your needs:

• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): A mild sedative that helps you relax but wears off quickly.
• Oral Sedation: A prescription pill taken before your appointment to induce a state of deep relaxation.
• IV Sedation: Administered through an IV for a deeper level of relaxation while still being responsive.
• General Anesthesia: You’re completely asleep for the procedure, ideal for extreme anxiety or special needs patients.

3. Communicate with Your Dentist

Discussing your fears with your dentist can help them tailor their approach to make you feel safe and comfortable. Let them know:

• If you need breaks during treatment.
• If certain sounds, tools, or sensations trigger anxiety.
• If you’d like to use a signal (like raising your hand) to pause treatment.

4. Bring a Support System

Having a friend or family member accompany you can provide reassurance and reduce anxiety.

5. Use Distraction Techniques

Many dentists offer headphones, TV, or calming music during procedures. Bringing your own playlist or audiobook can help distract you from the experience.

6. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing, mindfulness, or guided meditation before and during your appointment can significantly reduce fear.

7. Consider Therapy for Dental Phobia

For those with severe dental fear, therapy techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help retrain your brain to associate the dentist with positive experiences.

The Consequences of Avoiding the Dentist

Skipping dental visits can lead to:

• Tooth decay and cavities worsening over time
• Gum disease, which can affect overall health
• Tooth loss, leading to costly restorative procedures
• Pain and infections that could require emergency treatment

By taking advantage of sedation dentistry and anxiety-friendly dental care, you can prevent these issues before they become major problems.

Take the First Step Toward Fear-Free Dental Care

If you’re terrified of the dentist, you don’t have to suffer in silence. There are real, effective solutions to help you receive the care you need without fear or discomfort. At The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we specialize in sedation and sleep dentistry, ensuring a stress-free and painless experience.