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.

All of the staff have been extremely incredible. Dr. Thoms was amazing & really helped calm me before my procedure. Dr. Thoms answered any & all questions I have had & was extremely understanding when it comes to having dental anxiety. Robyn was the best X-ray technician I have ever had. She felt personable but still extremely professional. Throughout my life I have been to numerous dentists in hopes of finding one that will take my extreme dental anxiety seriously & not make me feel bad for it. I have finally found my favorite dentist. The Dental Anesthesia Center is my #1 pick if I had to chose any dentist.
Response from the owner:Thanks for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re grateful for your trust in our team and are pleased to hear you felt supported and comfortable throughout your visit. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to continuing to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
Hands down the best dental office in the area! They have always taken care of me and been very accommodating. The Doctors are the BEST!!! I would HIGHLY recommend this office if you are looking for a dentist! 5+ stars all around.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review and recommendation! We’re grateful for your kind words and are thrilled to hear that our team has provided a positive experience. We appreciate your support and look forward to serving our community with exceptional care.
I started seeing this practice as a scared middle age woman that thought she was quickly on the way to being toothless. Years later now, still working with the amazing Dr Behl and her amazing staff, I have been able to continue with my present teeth. Alway kind, full of grace, mercy and humor!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re honored to be part of your dental journey and appreciate your kind words about Dr. Behl and our team.
We have been taking our son to Dental Anesthesia since 2019. He gets his dental treatment and blood work done at the same time. We find the staff and Dr. Thoms highly professional. They communicate well and provide excellent treatment/services. Getting blood work done during sedation helps us a lot.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re honored to be part of your family’s care. We appreciate your trust in us.
This was my first time coming to the Dental Anesthesia Center, recommended by my sister whose special needs son has seen Dr. Hoffmann for years. I have a very difficult jaw condition resulting from a car accident and Dr. Hoffmann made me feel so immediately at ease that I’ve scheduled some extensive dental work to be done later this summer. I also loved my nurse, Ashley, who was so attentive, sweet and knowledgeable. She made me feel not as an anomaly, but valued and validated, and I hope she will be with me during my upcoming surgery. Thank you, Dr. Hoffmann and Ashley, for welcoming me to your practice!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for trusting our team. We’re honored to provide a welcoming, compassionate experience and will be sure to share your compliments with Dr. Hoffmann, Ashley, and the rest of our staff. We appreciate your support!

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.