Top Questions About Sedation Dentistry Answered

The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis offers expert sedation care for anxiety-free dental visits. Contact us today.

Sedation dentistry has become an essential option for patients who experience dental anxiety, have special needs, or require complex dental procedures. At The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we specialize in providing a comfortable and stress-free dental experience. Here are answers to the top questions patients have about sedation dentistry.

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we prioritize patient comfort and safety, offering a range of sedation options to meet individual needs. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry4.9

Based on 142 reviews

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Don C.

Outstanding customer car for our 15 yrs old Autistic Granddaughter. Rebekah really helped put our minds and ease and helped us plan the next visit when it came to reservations we had on the cost of this treatment, and future ones. This is expensive, but worth it knowing they help special needs kids, teens and adults. Sedation dentistry team handle everything great!
Thank you Dr. Thoms and the team!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re so glad our team could provide a supportive and reassuring experience while helping you plan for future care. It means a great deal to know you felt informed and cared for every step of the way. We truly appreciate your kind words and the trust you’ve placed in us.

Sylvia A.

Dr Thoms specializes in dental anesthesia for patients with Special Needs. My daughter has been a patient of his for many years.
His experience, depth of knowledge and understanding the needs of Special Needs patients is excellent.
He presents clear and detailed information for his procedures and treatment options along with expectations during aftercare.
Follow up instructions include a personal phone call from him as well as additional calls from his office staff. I highly recommend Dr Thoms and definitely give him 5 stars.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re grateful for the trust families place in our team and are committed to providing thoughtful, individualized care with clear communication every step of the way. Your recommendation means a great deal to us!

Carol Sue A.

My hygienist, DeLaina Joost, takes excellent care of my teeth with her advanced skills, gentle touch and great “chair side” manner. She is a consummate professional, and such a compassionate person. I look forward to my visits at DAC!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear you had a positive experience with our team and appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback.

Ken C.

I want to thank everyone at the Dental Anesthesia Center for taking care of me yesterday—Meaghan helped me get the forms filled out correctly and in on time, Daisy for guiding me in and getting me out safely, Dr. Hoffman for taking care of my teeth and dealing with my really terrible gag reflex, and EVERYONE who helps make this happen. I don't know all of your names, but I do know that it takes all of you working together to make my dental care possible and have good results.

I'm always nervous when I first arrive, even though every procedure has had a good outcome. I've never had any pain or excessive bleeding as a result. The one thing I realized yesterday is that all of you are warm, friendly, positive, you have what is called a good vibe, which helps me a great deal.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re so glad our team could help you feel comfortable and supported throughout your visit. Providing a safe, positive environment is very important to us, and your feedback means a great deal. We truly appreciate your trust in our care!

A K.

Dr. Thoms and his entire staff at The Dental Anesthesia Center have been absolutely wonderful!! They're all so kind and knowledgeable. I would give them 10 stars if I could!!!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. It means a lot to hear this feedback.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is often called “sleep dentistry,” though patients are usually awake unless general anesthesia is used. [American Dental Association]

What Types of Sedation Are Used in Dentistry?

• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
• Oral Sedation
• IV Sedation
• General Anesthesia
  [Mayo Clinic]

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when performed by trained professionals. [American Society of Anesthesiologists]

Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?

• Patients with dental anxiety or phobia
• Individuals with special needs
• Patients requiring extensive dental work
• Children who have difficulty sitting still
  [Cleveland Clinic]

What Are the Risks of Sedation Dentistry?

While generally safe, sedation dentistry can have minor risks such as drowsiness, nausea, and low blood pressure. [WebMD]

How Do I Prepare for a Sedation Dentistry Appointment?

Preparation may include avoiding food before the procedure and arranging a ride home. [Colgate]

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Dental Sedation?

Recovery time depends on the type of sedation used. [Healthline]

Is Sedation Dentistry Covered by Insurance?

Many insurance plans cover sedation dentistry when medically necessary. [Delta Dental]