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.

Dr. Thom and the entire staff at the Dental Anesthesia Center were warm, friendly and welcoming to me and my husband. My husband has dementia and needed extensive dental work. Dr. Thom took the time to explain to me what needed to be done before the procedure began. My husband is now fully recovered and doing just fine. I'm so grateful that we were referred to the Dental Anesthesia Center. Thank you!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you felt welcomed and supported by our team. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and are grateful for your trust in our office!
This is one of the best places that I have gone to for extensive dental care. The professionals there are extremely caring, and their bedside manner is beyond compare!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you had a positive experience with our team. Providing compassionate, high-quality care is always our goal, and we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback.
Dr. Thoms and staff are Amazing!
My son is Autistic and he loves it there.
It’s always scary to put your child with disabilities under anesthesia. So it’s a relief to have such compassionate professionals to rely upon They are so sweet and kind to him it’s so nice to have people who genuinely care.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! Our team is dedicated to creating a comfortable and supportive experience for everyone who visits our office. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback and for trusting us with your family’s care.
The Dental Anesthesia Center (DAC) is awesome. When I started there 19 years ago my dental health had deteriorated and my fears were intense. Their expertise and compassion got me back on the right dental track. I still get nervous - but things are so much better now in terms of my dental and gum health.. Don't lose hope - try the DAC!

My appointment today was for a cleaning - and a standard check of gum health etc. Carrie - as always - did EXCELLENT work. She is very kind and thorough and knowledgeable .. and patiently answers all my questions. Carrie is positive and supportive with us patients ... and provides guidance on better at-home care for our teeth and gums.

My thanks also to the office staff who are very helpful with questions or concerns.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued trust and kind words! We're honored to have be part of your journey. It means so much to know we've made a lasting impact—your story is truly inspiring!
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.

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.