Prioritizing gentle dental care and lasting relationships with every patient
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Specialized in helping patients overcome dental anxiety in a relaxing environment
Sedation Dentistry in University City, MO | The Dental Anesthesia Center
Specialized Dental Care for Patients with Anxiety, Disabilities, and Medical Needs
At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we provide trusted sedation and sleep dentistry to patients in University City and surrounding neighborhoods. We understand that for many individuals—especially those with special needs, dental anxiety, or complex medical conditions—visiting the dentist can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a safe, supportive environment designed for comfort, dignity, and personalized care.
Our advanced sedation techniques and experienced team make it possible for every patient to receive the treatment they need—without fear or stress.
Who We Serve in University City
We’re proud to be a referral destination for families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals throughout University City. Our patients include:
Children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, sensory processing disorders, or cognitive disabilities
Individuals suffering from dental phobia, trauma-related anxiety, or PTSD
Seniors or patients with complex medical histories who require closely monitored dental care
Patients needing multiple treatments in one visit under general anesthesia
From Delmar Loop to Olive Boulevard, we welcome patients from across University City and nearby areas like Clayton and Skinker-DeBaliviere.
No matter the need, our practice creates a supportive environment tailored to each patient’s comfort and safety.
Your Sedation Dentistry Experts
Our doctors—Dr. Michael Hoffmann, Dr. Sean Thoms, and Dr. Maris E. Behl—are nationally recognized for their expertise in sedation dentistry and special needs care. Backed by decades of clinical experience, they’ve helped thousands of patients overcome fear, access treatment, and maintain lifelong 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.
Looking for Sedation Dentistry in University City, MO?
Contact The Dental Anesthesia Center to schedule an appointment. Whether it’s for you or someone you care for, we’re here to deliver compassionate, stress-free dental care in a safe and welcoming environment.
Dr Thoms and his team are phenomenal. No question, the absolute best possible option for my child when he needed work done while sleeping (age based). While this option is not inexpensive, this set up of have anesthesiology in-house allowed us to get his mouth healthy when a traditional pediatric dentist could/would not. I am a parent that asks a lot of questions on behalf of my toddler’s care and at no point did I feel judged for this, nor was I rushed during my evaluation process during the consultation. Although the procedure is not one I would like to repeat for my child, my husband and I were both so pleased with how well Dr. Thoms communicated and how he clearly cared for our son’s wellbeing (both physical and emotional during a less than comfortable visit). Cannot recommend the back of house team more highly.
My one detraction is the FOH staff (not everyone) were not nearly as pleasant. I would like to communicate that while their day-to-day is very routine for them, being in that office as a parent is very scary for some people in their office and a little bit of kindness goes along way. I do recall, having a very pleasant conversation with Rebecca, but otherwise everyone else was on the apathetic side, in my personal opinion. That said you’ll notice that I still am leaving a five star review because the dental staff really just knocked out of the park, but as a parent I want to encourage you to look past any rudeness you may experience over email or on the phone because Dr. Thom’s is really that excellent.
Very nice very convenient for me great people working
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you had a positive experience with our team. We truly appreciate your 5-star review!
The staff is always compassionate and explain all the steps of the procedure. This office has been a God send for me because otherwise I would have let my teeth fall into further disrepair. I highly recommend this office!!!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We’re so glad our team could help make your experience feel comfortable and supportive. We truly appreciate your 5-star review!
Searching for a new dental clinic is challenging for someone who has
dental anxiety, fear, and traumatic experiences in a dental chair. The staff and doctors at the Dental Anesthesia Center were immediately very welcoming. Dr. Thoms put together a very detailed plan to repair and replace the previous work that I had in the past that was now causing problems. Putting my faith in him was the best thing that I could have done for my situation. I am more than completely satisfied with all of the extensive dental work that I’ve had with Dr.Thoms. I had my fourth sleep dentistry experience yesterday and I’m very happy with my results. I highly recommend this practice and truly want to give them more than five stars! Thank you for giving me back my health and confidence.
I adding to this post because of my visit today with the best dental hygienist Delaina and my exam with Dr. Biehl. I have truly never been to such a caring and supportive dental group. Everyone is always conscientious of my needs and knows that I have issues with anxiety. I am always calm when I am sitting in the chair because of their kindness. I am so pleased with the Dental anesthesia center. There needs to be more than five stars. Thank you, everyone.
Response from the owner:We know it isn’t always easy to find a dental office where you feel at ease, so your words mean the world to us. We’re so glad you feel comfortable with our team and truly appreciate your trust and recommendation!
I am unusually tense about my appointments. However, from the moment I checked in I relaxed. The staff was welcoming and assuring, and helped me to relax completely. Dr. Hofmann is superb. He is by far the best dentist and dental surgeon I have ever ever experienced.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad our team helped create a welcoming and comforting experience. We appreciate you sharing your feedback!
