Special Needs Dentistry

Experienced Special Needs Dentists for Adults and Children

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we understand that dental care for patients with special needs requires unique expertise, patience, and understanding. Dr. Hoffmann and Dr. Thoms are specialized dental anesthesiologists who provide comprehensive dental care for both adults and children with special needs in a safe, comfortable environment.

We’re very thankful to have found the kind folks at the dental anesthesia center. They are patient and informative with what’s needed and how it will get done. Big shoutout to Rebekah and crew at the front desk who always help us figure out all the paperwork and scheduling. Thank you Dr. Behl for your awesome bedside manner! Highly recommend to others
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We’re so glad you had a positive experience with our team. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to provide compassionate, helpful care.
The entire team at The Dental Anesthesia Center is exceptional.

Not only is Dr. Hoffmann a 10/10 dentist, but he is very trustworthy and only recommends procedures when necessary.

The dental hygienists are uniformly wonderful. During cleanings, they are gentle but are still able to carry on a conversation as they work.

If i moved an hour away, I would still drive my family here for any dental needs.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so grateful for your trust in our team and are glad your experience with our doctors and hygienists has been a positive one. We truly appreciate your support!
If we lived in closer proximity, we would see Dr. Thoms for all of our dentistry needs. As it is, we happily made the 2.25 hour trip three times for my daughter's root canal and crown. Dr. Thoms and the entire team were expert, kind, and compassionate.
We could not ask for more!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and for trusting our team. We truly appreciate you sharing your experience and are grateful for the opportunity to provide care. Wishing you and your family all the best!
Wonderful place for my special needs daughter. She is not always cooperative. They are very good and patient with her. Thankful she can receive anesthesia at the office and not have to take her for out patient service at a hospital. Thank you to all the staff 😇
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and 5-star review! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Our team is grateful for your trust and is always committed to providing patient-centered, compassionate care.
As a 75 year old man, I have been to several dentist’s and none compare to Dr. Thoms and Dr. Behl. The entire staff is very knowledgeable and accommodating. I have had some major work done and I/V sedation is definitely the way to go. Five stars to the entire team at DAC. I highly recommend their services.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We truly appreciate your trust in our team. It’s always our goal to provide comfortable, high-quality care to every patient.

Comprehensive Special Needs Dental Services

Our practice offers complete dental care for patients with special needs, including:

  • Thorough dental examinations
  • Digital X-rays
  • Professional cleanings
  • Cavity treatment
  • Emergency dental care
  • Preventive dentistry

Every procedure can be performed under sedation or general anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free experience for our patients.

Specialized Care for Various Conditions

We provide expert dental care for patients with:

  • Special Needs
  • Down’s Syndrome
  • Developmental Disabilities
  • Autism
  • Angelman Syndrome
  • Fragile X Syndrome
  • Asperger’s Syndrome
  • Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS)
  • Rett syndrome
  • Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD )
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Alzheimer’s

Why Choose The Dental Anesthesia Center for Special Needs Dentistry?

Our dental team specializes in creating positive experiences for patients who may have found traditional dental visits challenging. We offer:

  • Board-certified dental anesthesiologists
  • Sensory-friendly environment
  • Specialized equipment and techniques
  • Experience with both pediatric and adult special needs patients
  • Complete dental care under one roof

Understanding Special Needs Dental Care

We recognize that every patient’s needs are unique. Whether you’re seeking care for yourself or a loved one, our team takes time to understand each patient’s specific challenges and requirements. We create personalized treatment plans that consider:

  • Individual sensory sensitivities
  • Communication preferences
  • Medical history and medications
  • Previous dental experiences
  • Comfort levels with various procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

A qualified special needs dentist should have specialized training in sedation techniques, experience working with patients who have various disabilities, and a sensory-friendly office environment. Our dentists are board-certified dental anesthesiologists with extensive experience treating patients with autism, sensory processing disorders, and developmental disabilities.

We offer multiple sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. The appropriate method is determined based on your loved one’s needs, medical history, and required dental procedures.

Yes, sedation dentistry is generally safe when administered by qualified professionals like our board-certified dental anesthesiologists. We conduct thorough pre-treatment evaluations, monitor patients continuously during procedures, and follow strict safety protocols. Each sedation plan is customized based on the patient’s medical history and specific needs.

Community Involvement and Advocacy

Our commitment to special needs dentistry extends beyond our practice. We actively participate in community events like the annual Autism Walk and work with local special needs organizations to promote oral health awareness and accessibility to dental care.

Schedule Your Visit

Taking the first step toward dental care can feel overwhelming. Our compassionate team is here to help make the process easier. We’ll take time to discuss your concerns, answer questions, and create a comfortable care plan for you or your loved one.

Call Us Today

The first two board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.

Pictured is the Dental Anesthesia Center at the Autism Walk 2019 & Autism Glow Run 2019

autism dentist 2019

We look forward to meeting you and your loved one!

We welcome patients from throughout the St. Louis area and surrounding communities who are seeking specialized dental care for special needs.