950 Francis Pl #305, Clayton, MO 63105 Mon-Thu 7am-4pm · Fri 7am-3pm

Teeth Too Sensitive for the Dentist? Sedation Dentistry Can Help

We specialize in helping patients with dental anxiety, medical conditions, and extreme sensitivity—using safe and effective sedation dentistry.

Do you dread dental visits because your teeth are just too sensitive? You’re not alone. For many patients, the simple act of opening their mouth for a cleaning or exam can trigger intense discomfort. Whether it’s the cold air, dental tools, or just the thought of being touched in a sensitive area, tooth sensitivity can make dental care feel impossible.


I came here with my 18 year old daughter who has an immense fear of Doctors and Dentist , The kindness and understanding without any judgement we received from Dr.Thom was just unbelievable. The work he did on my daughter was life changing for her . I would recommend him to anyone . Just amazing, kind talented Doctor.
We met Dr. Shawn in Sept 2023 and in December, he removed our adult nonverbal son's wisdom teeth. Not gonna hold you, general anesthesia is billed incrementally (by the minute/quarter-hour) and is a heavy financial investment. I love this clinic because it really is a safe space for special needs families. There's a huge calm that accompanies knowing your dependent person is getting healthy. Dr. Shawn is exceptional. We drove 6 hours to get here so we'll choose a local practice for routine sedation cleanings down the road. I hope to see more neurodivergent acceptance built locally in our state's dentistry like this team has here. Meanwhile we are so grateful for this practice and grateful our son was in Dr. Shawn's care.
Dr. Thoms and Robin are excellent in their care, concern, and support. Dr. Thoms explains everything and takes his time. If I have questions or concerns, he is easy to talk to and listens well.Robin is right there by my side throughout procedures. Her technical skills and professionalism are impressive. She is terrific!
Individualized care, expertise in general anesthesia, and attention to detail are why we keep returning for our son.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and continued trust in our team! We’re grateful to be part of your family’s care and truly appreciate your confidence in us.
Omg!! This place is Amazing! The people who work here are so very nice and understanding. I love this team
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We truly appreciate your support and are grateful to have such wonderful patients.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can result from several common issues:

  • Enamel erosion from acidic foods or brushing too hard
  • Receding gums that expose sensitive root surfaces
  • Tooth decay or cracks
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • Recent dental work, like whitening or fillings

Even routine cleanings can feel painful if your teeth or gums are inflamed.


Why Sedation Dentistry Makes a Difference

If you’ve avoided the dentist due to sensitivity, it may feel like a never-ending cycle: your discomfort keeps you away, but skipping care only makes the problem worse. That’s where sedation dentistry comes in.

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we offer several sedation options:

  • Mild Sedation – Helps you relax while staying awake
  • Moderate Sedation – You’ll remain conscious but may not remember much
  • Deep Sedation or General Anesthesia – For those who need complete sleep during procedures

Our board-certified anesthesia team ensures every patient receives the level of care they need, safely and comfortably.

Who Can Benefit?

Sedation dentistry is ideal for:


What to Expect at Your Visit

At your first appointment, we’ll talk through your dental history, sensitivity concerns, and any previous negative experiences. Our team is trained to listen without judgment.

We’ll then create a customized sedation plan so you can get the care you need—without pain or fear.

Updated: September 3, 2025