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 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.
Our son, Jimmy Henderson , has been having all of his dental care done by Dr. Michael Hoffmann and his team at the Dental Anesthesia Center for the past 15 years. He goes there once a year and they put him to sleep, clean his teeth, take x-rays and fix anything that needs to be repaired. They are such a blessing for us and our son. He couldn’t tolerate a regular dentist. We heartily recommend them for your dental care. Terry & Debbie Henderson
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review. We are truly grateful for your trust and support over the years. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care in a safe and comfortable environment. Your recommendation means the world to us!
Outstanding customer car for our 15 yrs old Autistic Granddaughter. Rebekah really helped put our minds and ease and helped us plan the next visit when it came to reservations we had on the cost of this treatment, and future ones. This is expensive, but worth it knowing they help special needs kids, teens and adults. Sedation dentistry team handle everything great! Thank you Dr. Thoms and the team!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re so glad our team could provide a supportive and reassuring experience while helping you plan for future care. It means a great deal to know you felt informed and cared for every step of the way. We truly appreciate your kind words and the trust you’ve placed in us.
Dr Thoms specializes in dental anesthesia for patients with Special Needs. My daughter has been a patient of his for many years. His experience, depth of knowledge and understanding the needs of Special Needs patients is excellent. He presents clear and detailed information for his procedures and treatment options along with expectations during aftercare. Follow up instructions include a personal phone call from him as well as additional calls from his office staff. I highly recommend Dr Thoms and definitely give him 5 stars.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re grateful for the trust families place in our team and are committed to providing thoughtful, individualized care with clear communication every step of the way. Your recommendation means a great deal to us!
My hygienist, DeLaina Joost, takes excellent care of my teeth with her advanced skills, gentle touch and great “chair side” manner. She is a consummate professional, and such a compassionate person. I look forward to my visits at DAC!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear you had a positive experience with our team and appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback.
I want to thank everyone at the Dental Anesthesia Center for taking care of me yesterday—Meaghan helped me get the forms filled out correctly and in on time, Daisy for guiding me in and getting me out safely, Dr. Hoffman for taking care of my teeth and dealing with my really terrible gag reflex, and EVERYONE who helps make this happen. I don't know all of your names, but I do know that it takes all of you working together to make my dental care possible and have good results.
I'm always nervous when I first arrive, even though every procedure has had a good outcome. I've never had any pain or excessive bleeding as a result. The one thing I realized yesterday is that all of you are warm, friendly, positive, you have what is called a good vibe, which helps me a great deal.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re so glad our team could help you feel comfortable and supported throughout your visit. Providing a safe, positive environment is very important to us, and your feedback means a great deal. We truly appreciate your trust in our care!
