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What Makes DAC the Top Choice for Dental Anxiety in Missouri?

Struggle with dental anxiety? The Dental Anesthesia Center offers expert sedation and compassionate care. Contact us today for a stress-free visit.

Many people find the thought of a dental appointment overwhelming, but for those with dental anxiety, it can be a paralyzing fear. At The Dental Anesthesia Center (DAC) in St. Louis, we understand that anxiety isn’t just about discomfort—it’s a barrier to essential dental care. Here’s why DAC stands out as Missouri’s top destination for patients seeking a stress-free, safe, compassionate dental experience.

dental-anesthesia-center-dental-anxiety
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.

🔹 Expertise in Sedation and Sleep Dentistry

Unlike general dental offices that may offer limited sedation options, DAC is fully specialized in sedation and sleep dentistry. Our facility is licensed to administer all levels of sedation – from nitrous oxide to IV and general anesthesia – in a hospital-grade setting.

  • Dr. Michael J. Hoffmann and Dr. Sean M. Thoms are Board-Certified in General Anesthesia.
  • We safely treat patients of all ages, including those with extreme dental phobia, special needs, or complex medical histories.

This makes DAC uniquely equipped to care for patients who otherwise would avoid the dentist entirely.

👨‍👩‍👦 Compassionate Care for the Whole Family

Dental anxiety doesn’t discriminate by age. Whether you’re scheduling for a child, adult, or senior, The Dental Anesthesia Center offers a calm, non-judgmental environment where patients can truly feel safe.

  • Our team is trained to recognize signs of fear and adjust care accordingly.
  • We take time to explain procedures, answer questions, and offer gentle reassurance.
  • Sedation is always tailored to each patient’s unique comfort level and health status.

At DAC, it’s not just about treating teeth but building trust and restoring confidence. 🤝

🌿Comfortable for Patients with Special Needs

Patients with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or other developmental or cognitive differences often face limited options for dental care. DAC is proud to be Missouri’s leading provider of special needs dentistry under sedation.

  • We work closely with caregivers to create customized treatment plans.
  • Our facility accommodates mobility devices and sensory sensitivities.
  • Our sedation options help reduce stress and make care possible for even the most sensitive patients.

We’re committed to making high-quality dental care accessible and inclusive. 👵🏻♾️

⏳ Flexible Scheduling and Streamlined Appointments

Dental anxiety often leads to skipped cleanings and delayed treatments. That’s why DAC prioritizes efficient, single-visit comprehensive care whenever possible. Patients can often have cleanings, x-rays, and procedures completed in one stress-free appointment under sedation.

  • Less time in the chair means less anxiety.
  • Parents and caregivers save time and energy.
  • One visit = one step closer to a healthy smile!

Convenience and comfort go hand in hand at DAC. ✅👌

🌐 Trusted by Parents & Patients Across Missouri

Referrals come to DAC from across the state because our reputation is built on clinical excellence and genuine compassion. But don’t just take our word for it:

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.

Ready to Conquer Dental Anxiety?

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we believe that no one should have to suffer through dental fear. Whether it’s your first visit in years or searching for a new solution for a loved one, we’re here to help, without judgment, and with expert care.

📍 Schedule your consultation today by either calling (314) 862-7844 or visiting our online contact form.

Updated: June 23, 2025