Prioritizing gentle dental care and lasting relationships with every patient
Advanced Expertise
Combining latest dental technology with professional, compassionate care
Comfort Focus
Specialized in helping patients overcome dental anxiety in a relaxing environment
Sedation Dentistry in St. Louis, MO | The Dental Anesthesia Center
Providing Safe, Comfortable Dental Care for Patients with Anxiety, Disabilities, and Complex Medical Needs
Welcome to The Dental Anesthesia Center, the trusted sedation and sleep dentistry provider in St. Louis, MO. We specialize in dental care for patients who require a unique approach, whether due to severe dental anxiety, special needs, or medical complexity. We aim to make dentistry accessible, fear-free, and effective for individuals of all ages.
We proudly serve St. Louis and surrounding communities with advanced sedation options, personalized treatment plans, and an unwavering commitment to patient comfort.
Who We Serve
Our patients often come to us because traditional dental settings cannot accommodate their needs. We provide care for:
Children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, developmental delays, or cognitive disabilities
Seniors and medically fragile patients who need dental care in a carefully controlled environment
Patients requiring multiple procedures in one visit using general anesthesia
We treat patients from all areas of St. Louis, including Central West End, South City, North County, West County, and the surrounding metro region.
Our Team of Sedation Dentistry Experts
Led by Dr. Michael Hoffmann, Dr. Sean Thoms, and Dr. Maris E. Behl, the Dental Anesthesia Center has built a reputation as the region’s leader in sedation and special needs dentistry. With decades of combined experience and a focus on compassionate care, we’ve helped thousands of patients overcome fear, access treatment, and maintain better oral health.
We are one of the only dental practices in the St. Louis area with the experience, equipment, and team required to treat patients with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other special needs.
Pediatric Sedation Dentistry
We provide safe, compassionate dental care for children with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or sensory sensitivities, making every visit stress-free for kids and parents.
General Dentistry
We offer fillings, crowns, cleanings, and more—all under sedation if needed. This is ideal for patients who cannot tolerate traditional dental settings.
Schedule Your Visit
If you’re searching for sedation dentistry in St. Louis, contact The Dental Anesthesia Center today. We’ll help you or your loved one receive the necessary dental care—comfortably, safely, and without fear.
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.
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!
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!
I went to nervous and 3 to 4 hours later, I essentially woke up in the car on my way home without realizing anything had happened. If you have trauma with previous dental issues, this is the place.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re grateful our team could help provide a comfortable experience and appreciate your trust in us.
Amazing staff from entering to exiting! Thank you all for truly caring and taking the time to explain every step as you go. You are appreciated and I would highly recommend you to everyone!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We’re so glad you felt cared for and informed throughout your experience. Our team truly appreciates your support!
