Too Embarrassed to Go to the Dentist? Here’s How We Can Help

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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.

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My sweet daughter has Autism, and was unable to work with a typical dentist. She must be sedated for dental cleanings, which can be scary for both of us. The team here is always very warm and understanding. They’re patient and willing to help us when she is struggling. Dr. Thoms is so helpful and kind. We’ve seen him for several years now, and I trust him and his team completely. Thank you!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and trust in our team over the years. We’re so grateful to be part of your family’s care and truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to our team!
I am so impressed with this Place. The staff is super friendly and explains everything in great detail and really takes their time with their patients. I came here after 15+ years of not having Dental insurance or the means to see a Dentist. Needless to say, my teeth were in pretty bad shape, and I needed a deep periodontal cleaning. When I went in for consultation back in February I was totally nervous, anxious had no clue what to expect. I just knew that I needed to a tooth that was falling out pulled and needed to do something about my teeth. After talking with a staff member and Dr. Hoffmann I felt totally at ease. Both my procedures in Feb and May went incredibly well and I woke up from both with an incredible smile. I came back today for follow up and cleaning my Hygienist was awesome I still had some sensitivity around my front teeth and when she noticed I flinched she stopped and said do you need break, or do you want me to put some numbing jell on your front teeth. After we got done, I had a lot of questions about the proper way to floss, what type of tooth paste I should use for sensitive teeth etc and she really took the time to answer all my questions. If you have been putting off dental work because of anxiety, I encourage you to check this place out. The staff truly cares about their clients.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review and kind words. We’re so glad you felt informed, supported, and cared for throughout your visits. Helping patients feel comfortable and confident in their dental care means so much to our team. We truly appreciate your trust!
I went to nervous and 3 to 4 hours later, I essentially woke up in the car on my way home without realizing anything had happened. If you have trauma with previous dental issues, this is the place.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re grateful our team could help provide a comfortable experience and appreciate your trust in us.
Amazing staff from entering to exiting! Thank you all for truly caring and taking the time to explain every step as you go. You are appreciated and I would highly recommend you to everyone!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We’re so glad you felt cared for and informed throughout your experience. Our team truly appreciates your support!
Extremely friendly and professional Liked the way everything was explained a b d was concerned about my comfort k rt
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review! We’re so glad you felt comfortable and well informed during your visit. Our team truly appreciates your support!

Embarrassment Is One of the Most Common Reasons People Avoid the Dentist

It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one dealing with dental shame, but in reality, it’s incredibly common. People feel embarrassed about:

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.

Dental Concerns for Teens

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.

Updated: October 7, 2025