If you’ve been avoiding the dentist because of embarrassment or fear, you are not alone. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Whether it’s due to dental anxiety, past trauma, or feeling ashamed about the condition of your teeth, millions of people struggle with similar feelings. At The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we understand the emotional weight behind these fears—and we’re here to change the way you experience dental care.
I have NEVER had a positive experience with dentist…until now!! I was mind blown how kind the staff was, not just to me but to everyone! I have debilitating anxiety when it comes to dentists because of bad previous experiences, so I was very nervous. But, all the staff, including Dr. Thom, were very gentle, kind, and understanding. They took time to listen to all my concerns and address them, helping to put me at ease. I was also amazed how professional the whole office ran and how completely reliable they were. They easily guided me through the process and everything went so smoothly, including my sedation. I have never been treated so kindly by any dental office before, I was struggling to believe I wasn’t in some kind of dream. But. They really were that nice.
My recovery from sedation and all The dental work they did to save my tooth was amazing, not a single issue! Dr. Thom even called personally to check on me a day later.
Coming back to put my permanent crown in was the same experience. They were all so kind, Good about explaining everything they were doing and make the experience light and dare I say…fun.
I would drive 2.5 hours again in a heartbeat to do my work here. Best dental experience I’ve ever had hands down!!!!!!! Thank you Dr. Thom for giving my life and tooth back. I’m so excited to not be in so much excruciating pain anymore!
Response from the owner:We can’t thank you enough for your kind and heartfelt words. Our entire team is dedicated to creating a gentle, supportive, and positive experience for every patient, so it means the world to hear your visit felt that way. We’re so glad you felt cared for and comfortable throughout the process, and we truly appreciate you making the trip to see us. Thank you for trusting us—it’s an honor to care for patients like you!
Dr. Hoffmann and his team takes great care of my special needs daughter. We have been coming here for over 20 years. The staff is so kind and patient with her and explains everything to help her stay calm.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words and for trusting our team for so many years. We’re honored to care for your family and appreciate the opportunity to make each visit a positive experience.
I have had the best experience with Dr Behl and her staff! I have awful dental anxiety from some past experiences and they are so kind and supportive. Rebecca is incredible to work with. I highly recommend them to everyone I know!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your kind words! We’re happy to know you felt supported and comfortable during your visit. Our team strives to create a welcoming environment for everyone, and we truly appreciate your recommendation.
We always receive excellent care at the Dental Anesthesia Center.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We truly appreciate your trust in our team and are grateful for the opportunity to provide care.
Our adult daughter has cerebral palsy and requires being fully sedated when having anything done. The DAC was such a positive experience. Dr Hoffmann and his staff were kind and did great explaining things. As a mom, I had a lot of questions about how certain things would be done as usually she’s in her chair when getting examined at her local dentist and they had everything under control including transferring from her chair to the dentist chair and keeping her secured in the dentist chair as well as keeping her neck and legs comfortable. Many thanks to them!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re grateful for your trust and happy to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Our goal is always to provide compassionate, attentive care in a safe and comfortable environment. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.
At DAC, we’ve seen it all—and we never judge. Our goal is to help you feel safe, respected, and supported from your first phone call to the final follow-up.
Fear Can Be Paralyzing—but It Doesn’t Have to Be Permanent
Embarrassment often goes hand-in-hand with fear. Perhaps you had a bad experience as a child, or maybe just the idea of sitting in a dental chair causes you panic.
This is precisely why we specialize in sedation and sleep dentistry. We work with patients who:
Haven’t seen a dentist in 10, 15, or even 20+ years
Experience dental phobia or anxiety attacks
Have a strong gag reflex or extreme sensitivity
Feel emotionally overwhelmed by dental care
You’re not “difficult” or “impossible to treat”—you just haven’t found the right team yet.
How We Help You Feel Comfortable, Calm, and In Control
Here’s how The Dental Anesthesia Center makes the experience different:
1. Compassionate, Judgment-Free Care
We treat every patient with dignity—period. No lectures, no guilt trips, and no shaming. We focus on what we can do moving forward.
2. Sedation Options
Oral sedation: Simple pills taken before your visit to reduce anxiety
IV sedation: A deeper, more controlled level of relaxation
General anesthesia: For patients who prefer to sleep through treatment entirely
3. Specialized Experience
Unlike general dental offices, our practice is built specifically for patients who require extra care—including those with anxiety, PTSD, disabilities, or sensory issues.
4. Private Treatment Environment
We offer a calm, private setting—not a busy, high-volume clinic. Many of our patients say they finally feel “heard” and “seen” for the first time in a dental office.
What Happens When You’re Ready to Book
Taking that first step might be scary—but it could change your life. When you call us:
We listen to your concerns without judgment
We schedule a private consultation where you can ask questions
We create a custom treatment plan that meets your emotional and medical needs
Why St. Louis Patients Choose The Dental Anesthesia Center
We’ve helped thousands of patients in St. Louis and surrounding areas take back control of their dental health—without fear or embarrassment. Whether it’s been 6 months or 6 years, we’re here to help you feel comfortable again.
You Deserve to Feel Safe at the Dentist
If you’re too embarrassed to go to the dentist, you deserve a team that understands what you’re going through. We’ve built our practice around safety, comfort, and compassion—because we believe every patient deserves a fresh start.
