Struggling with dental care for a loved one with autism? Discover expert, sensory-friendly solutions in St. Louis that make every visit calm and comfortable.
Dental health plays a vital role in overall well-being, yet maintaining good oral hygiene can be particularly challenging for individuals with autism and sensory processing disorders. From heightened sensitivities to communication barriers, these patients often face unique obstacles that make routine dental care difficult. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward providing compassionate, effective solutions tailored to their needs.
Oral Health Challenges for Patients with Autism
Many people on the autism spectrum experience heightened sensitivity to touch, taste, sound, and light. These sensory sensitivities can make brushing, flossing, and dental visits overwhelming. The texture of toothpaste, the sound of electric toothbrushes, or even the feel of a toothbrush can trigger discomfort or anxiety. In some cases, patients may gag easily or have difficulty tolerating the feeling of dental instruments in their mouths.
Additionally, some individuals may have limited verbal communication, making it harder to express discomfort or pain. As a result, dental issues may go unnoticed until they become severe. Behavioral challenges, resistance to change, and difficulty understanding abstract concepts can also make it challenging to establish consistent dental routines. This often results in missed dental appointments, infrequent brushing and flossing, and greater susceptibility to oral health problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay.
Parents and caregivers may also face challenges maintaining their child’s oral health. They may struggle to find trained and equipped dental professionals to treat individuals with special needs. Long wait times, a lack of understanding from dental staff, and an overwhelming environment can deter families from seeking regular care.
Why Dental Health Matters More Than Ever
Dental health is not just about having a bright smile—it is essential to overall physical and emotional health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to pain, infections, and chronic inflammation, affecting a person’s ability to eat, sleep, and communicate. In severe cases, untreated dental issues can even lead to life-threatening conditions, especially if infections spread to other parts of the body.
For patients with autism, dental pain or discomfort may manifest through changes in behavior, such as irritability, withdrawal, or self-injurious behavior. These signs may not always be immediately recognized as symptoms of a dental problem. This underscores the importance of preventative care and routine dental checkups.
Good oral health can also positively influence self-esteem and social interactions. Individuals with healthy teeth are more likely to engage with peers, smile confidently, and enjoy a better overall quality of life. When dental issues are left untreated, they can contribute to anxiety, social isolation, and decreased participation in daily activities.
Solutions Tailored to Sensory Needs
Fortunately, various strategies and tools are available to make dental care more accessible and comfortable for individuals with autism and sensory challenges. Creating a sensory-friendly dental environment is crucial. This includes minimizing bright lights, reducing noise levels, and using calming techniques such as weighted blankets or noise-canceling headphones.
Visual schedules, social stories, and practice visits can help prepare patients for what to expect during a dental appointment. These tools can ease anxiety by breaking down each step of the visit into manageable parts. Clear, simple language and positive reinforcement can encourage cooperation and reduce fear.
At The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we specialize in sedation and sleep dentistry, offering gentle, personalized care for patients who cannot tolerate traditional dental settings. For some individuals, conscious sedation or general anesthesia may be the safest and most comfortable way to receive comprehensive dental treatment. Our team is trained to provide compassionate, expert care for patients with a wide range of special needs, including autism and sensory processing disorders.
We recognize that every patient is unique and work closely with families to develop individualized care plans. This collaborative approach ensures that each patient’s specific sensory triggers, behavioral patterns, and communication styles are respected and accommodated.
The Role of Routine and Familiarity
One of the most effective ways to promote dental health in individuals with autism is through consistency and routine. Establishing a regular schedule for brushing and flossing can help make oral hygiene a predictable and manageable part of daily life. Using visual timers, picture guides, and favorite songs can make these activities more engaging and less stressful.
Introducing dental care gradually can also be beneficial. Start with allowing the child to explore dental tools, such as a toothbrush or floss pick, without any pressure to use them. Slowly build up to brushing for short periods, and then increase the duration as tolerance improves.
Consistency with dental providers is equally important. Seeing the same dentist and hygienist at each visit can help build trust and reduce anxiety. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we prioritize continuity of care, ensuring that patients and families are greeted by familiar faces at each appointment.
Empowering Families with Education and Support
Parental involvement is key to successful dental care for children and adults with autism. Educating caregivers on proper brushing and flossing techniques, the importance of diet in oral health, and signs of dental issues empowers them to be proactive in their loved one’s care. We provide families with step-by-step guides, adaptive tools, and hands-on demonstrations to support home care routines.
We also encourage families to ask questions and voice their concerns. Open communication helps us tailor care to meet each patient’s individual needs. Whether it’s recommending a specific toothbrush designed for sensory sensitivity or helping navigate insurance and scheduling, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Specialized Training Makes a Difference
Not all dental practices are equipped to handle the complexities of treating patients with autism. That’s why choosing a provider with specialized training in sedation and special needs dentistry is essential. Our team undergoes continuous education at The Dental Anesthesia Center to stay updated with best practices in treating individuals with developmental disabilities and sensory processing challenges.
We believe every patient deserves access to high-quality, respectful dental care, regardless of their abilities. Our facility is designed to create a calming, supportive environment where patients feel safe and valued. From the moment you walk in, our goal is to reduce fear and build a foundation of trust and comfort.
A Brighter Future Starts with a Healthy Smile
If your loved one has autism or sensory challenges, know that you are not alone—and that compassionate, expert dental care is within reach. Prioritizing dental health today lays the foundation for a healthier, happier future.
By recognizing the unique needs of individuals with autism, adapting care strategies, and working together as a team, we can help every patient achieve better oral health and overall well-being. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we are committed to making that future possible, one smile at a time.
Great experience every time! The staff is welcoming, gentle, and truly cares about their patients.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear you’ve had great experiences with our team. We appreciate you sharing your feedback!
Always greeted warmly and sincerely. Always on time…. Love that. Always painless. Always respectful. Always professional. Actually Always fun to be there…. Yes, fun!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're so glad to hear you've had positive and enjoyable experiences with our team — we love making dental visits something to smile about!
The Dental Anesthesia Center and Dr. Thoms have been a life saver for our daughter. She has always struggled with the dentist due to her rare neurological condition, we initially contacted them for her wisdom teeth removal and now see them for her ongoing dental care. Their advanced care and support make it possible for her to receive the best treatment and keep her teeth healthy.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and trust in our team. We're honored to be part of your daughter's care and are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality treatment for every patient.
I recently began attending as a patient and it has been nothing but a positive experience. I had my wisdom teeth removed and I went in fell asleep and when I woke up I was done and ready to go. The staff are friendly, understanding, and professional. I would absolutely recommend anyone to go here for any dental needs.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad to hear your visit went smoothly and that you felt comfortable and cared for by our team. We truly appreciate your recommendation!
Dr. Sean Thoms is kind, compassionate and knowledgeable! He explained every detail of my daughter’s complicated dental procedure in an easily understood manner. He even called later to ensure that my daughter was recovering well! All of the staff were extremely nice and professional. For these reasons, and more I would highly recommend Dr. Sean Thoms at The Dental Anesthesia Center!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words about Dr. Thoms and our team! We’re grateful for your trust and so glad to hear your experience was a positive one. We truly appreciate your recommendation!
My mother recently received care from Dr. Hoffman. She was so thrilled with her experience with the treatment she received from Dr. Hoffman and Robin I felt compelled to write a review myself! She was extremely nervous and they made the procedure quick and painless!! Thank you Dr. Hoffman and your entire team!! I will absolutely recommend this office for anyone in need of dental work in St. Louis!
Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share such kind feedback! We're so glad your mother had a positive experience with Dr. Hoffmann and our team. We truly appreciate your recommendation!
This is my second time seeing Dr. Hoffman.
He is so proficient and makes the entire experience extremely comfortable! He removed my wisdom teeth, no pain, and had them out within seconds. I highly recommend him and his office staff to anyone in the St. Louis area!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We're so glad to hear you had a comfortable experience with Dr. Hoffman and our team — we appreciate your trust and support!
I was referred to The Dental Anesthesia Center by a dentist who thought I was "afraid of dentistry" because I couldn't stand to be touched in a certain area of my mouth. Thankfully I met Dr. Sean Thoms, who discovered the source of the pain was a severed nerve along my gumline caused by a previous oral surgeon.
DR. THOMS, HIS NURSES AND THE STAFF ARE THE BEST OF THE BEST!! Trust me, I have had extremely complicated dental issues since 2007 bouncing from dentist to dentist. None of which were able to help me.
Dr. Thoms went over and above the call of duty - researching and conferring with other professionals in his field before coming up with a plan of action. He didn't give up on me!
THIS DR. AND HIS TEAM CARES ABOUT YOU! It is the best decision I could have made and now my smile starts from the inside out!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and thoughtful review. We’re honored to hear that your experience with our team made a difference. Providing compassionate, individualized care is always our top priority. We truly appreciate your trust in us!
Dr. Thom, Rebekah, and the rest of the staff were absolutely amazing with my 9 year old special needs son! We just moved back to MO after living in SC for years and hadn't been able to establish care with anyone yet when we had an accident where my son broke his front tooth and it needed to be removed. Under sedation, Dr. Thom was able to perform a complete set of x-rays that we weren't able to obtain in SC and he was able to show us where a couple of his adult teeth that haven't erupted yet were blocking each other and that the pre-molar would have to be removed eventually anyway in order to give his K9 tooth the best chance to come in normally. He took the time to explain everything and show us directly in our son's mouth as well as on the x-rays what was needing to be done for the best possible outcome. The ladies were so awesome and patient with him as he was coming out of anesthesia and cranky. Dr. Thom called to check on him that evening and it was reassuring that we could contact him at anytime with questions or concerns! This morning our son actually smiled and showed off his jack-o-lantern smile that he will have for the next few years until he is old enough to get something more permanent done. We have definitely found our dentist for the entire family!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad our team was able to provide the care and support your family needed during a stressful time. We truly appreciate your trust in us and look forward to continuing to care for your family!
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.
I will always sing the praises of this office. Their care and compassion are beyond amazing!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, they mean the world to us.
I went to DAC because I have a hearing impairment which makes the sounds of dental work incredibly painful. (Bone conduction)
Because of this, I had not been to the dentist in years.
Being able to go to sleep and have all my dental work done while I was out was incredible! I had a tooth extracted, a root canal, 4 fillings and a cleaning all at the same visit!
The staff was so caring and understanding, it made me feel really good.
I will only go here for my dental work from now on.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We’re honored to provide care in a way that meets your needs and makes you feel comfortable and supported. 💙
Got my wisdom teeth removed. They did great highly recommend 👏
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We’re so glad to hear you had a great experience with us. 😊
Michael Hoffman is a miracle worker and is the olny dentist that I've ever felt comp comfortable with.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear you felt comfortable during your visit. We appreciate your support!
I have never had a bad experience going to this dental group! The staff are delightful, professional and efficient. I have referred the Dental Anesthesia Center to friends many times, particularly those who are anxious about going to a dentist!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re so glad to hear you’ve had positive experiences with our team. Your referrals mean a lot to us!
Had an apt for a new dentist (insurance would not cover our old one anymore). It was supposed to be just an evaluation/ cleaning. But I developed severe dental pain Wed and yesterday was really bad. The new office does an incredible job! Not only did The Dental Anesthesia Center - SLEEP DENTISTRY ST. LOUIS change my visit, they found the source of the pain (cracked tooth with previous filling that needed a root canal) bit they FIXED IT and I was relaxed (thanks to the nitrous gas) and had no pain thanks to Dr B & her amazing assistants. I had a good dentist before, but this was the best dental experience I've ever had.
Thank you!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind feedback! We're so glad we could help make your visit comfortable and get you relief quickly. We truly appreciate your trust in our team!
I became a patient of Dr. Hoffman when he was the only dentist and the office was much smaller. I needed a dentist who could safely sedate me when I had dental work done. I've seen the practice grow into the The Dental Anesthesia Center. Dr. Hoffmann, Dr. Thoms, and Dr. Behl can fix any problem with your teeth without being you being anxious. The Dental Hygienists have a special skill of making sure you are calm while sitting in their chair. The office staff do a fabulous job of running the office smoothly. Continuing education is very important in the practice. I like how much everyone on the staff work together to make sure you visit is the best part of your day. The staff participates in several find raising events for local charities. There isn't a better Dentist in St. Louis.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful and generous review. We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with our practice over the years. We are so glad to hear that our efforts in providing compassionate, high-quality care in a calm and supportive environment have made a difference for you. We also truly value giving back to the community and appreciate you noticing. Your support means the world to us!
Dr. Thoms and his staff are wonderful with our special needs daughter. They are kind and patient with her, and always keep us informed during her procedures. We wouldn’t take her anywhere else!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and trust in our team. It means a great deal to know that you feel supported and informed during your visits. We truly appreciate your confidence in us!
Thanks to all the great staff and Dr. Hoffman for all wonderful help you gave to our son.
Thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We truly appreciate your trust in our team—it means a lot to us.
Seeing Dr Hoffman at the Dental Anesthesia Center has been one of the best decisions I have made in my life. Dr Hoffman and all of his staff, the other dentists, the dental assistants and the front desk personnel are the absolute best. Everyone I’ve encountered in the office have been so kind, patient, professional and compassionate. I will always have a degree of dental anxiety, but everyone shows such compassion and understanding, that it really helps make you feel less anxious.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your heartfelt review. We're truly honored to be part of your care and grateful for your kind words about our team. Helping patients feel safe, supported, and comfortable is at the core of everything we do. Your trust means the world to us!
Our son, Jimmy Henderson , has been having all of his dental care done by Dr. Michael Hoffmann and his team at the Dental Anesthesia Center for the past 10 years. He goes there once a year and they put him to sleep, clean his teeth, take x-rays and fix anything that needs to be repaired. They are such a blessing for us and our son. He couldn’t tolerate a regular dentist. We heartily recommend them for your dental care. Terry & Debbie Henderson
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review. We are truly grateful for your trust and support over the years. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care in a safe and comfortable environment. Your recommendation means the world to us!
Dr. Hoffmann and his awesome staff are always on time and do a great job. A very professional group of people providing excellent dental care.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind feedback! We’re grateful for your support and proud to provide timely, professional care to our patients.
I am happy to see dentists finding ways to make things easier for those who don't like to go to the dentist. I have even seen some dental offices that have been tricked out to make the little patients to think that he or she is in a much different place than the dentist office. Historically the building was built in the 1950s and the office used to belong to an opthamologist.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're dedicated to creating a comfortable space for all our patients—especially the little ones.
Dr. Hoffman is very skilled. Additionally everyone one on his team and in his office are great. Very compassionate and patient.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5-star review—we truly appreciate your support!
Absolutely highest quality service and staff! My son was treated so well and it made a scary appointment easier for him to handle. If I could, I’d give 10 ⭐️!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that your son had a positive experience and that we could make his appointment easier.
Christy and Dr. Behl spent a lot of time with me making sure I was comfortable and my anxiety was not ramping up. They both explained exactly what they were doing before they did it and gave me frequent breaks to catch my breath.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We're glad you felt comfortable and cared for throughout your visit. Your trust means a lot to us!
Great staff, and great experience!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5-star review—we truly appreciate your support!
I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my son. Flawless experience and staff. Highly recommended.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your trust and kind words! We're thrilled to hear you had a great experience and appreciate your recommendation.
Love these folks. They go above and beyond. So much so I am a regular dental patient! So gentle and caring, I could not say enough.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind words!
I've been with this group for about a decade & can't say enough good things about them. From the dentists to the hygienists to the desk staff, they are fabulous. I have incredibly high anxiety when it comes to dental work & they go out of their way to make me feel as comfortable as possible. I've never had a bad experience & if it wasn't for them I'd still be getting dental cleanings under real anesthesia due to the fear. They turned that around for me & while I still feel anxiety, I'm able to get cleanings without any anesthesia, pills, gas, etc. I've had both large scale & routine work done there & highly recommend them. Extremely helpful, professional & pleasant staff all around. Wonderful people.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your trust and kind words! We're honored to have helped you overcome your dental anxiety and appreciate your recommendation.
A 10/10 Experience!
I cannot express how grateful we are for Dr. Thoms and his team! Their sensitivity, expertise, and dedication made a potentially challenging dental experience for our daughter as comfortable and stress-free as possible (for her AND us!).
We were very impressed by Dr. Thoms' thoroughness in explaining the procedure and his willingness to answer all of our questions, alleviating any anxieties we had. The ability to be present by our daughter's side as she was falling asleep was a huge comfort factor.
We felt a sense of genuine care and compassion towards our daughter and felt that they treated her as if she was one of their own. Dr. Thoms and his team clearly go above and beyond to provide exceptional patient care and makes a complex dental procedure feel safe, comfortable, and even reassuring. A huge THANK YOU to Dr. Thoms and his team!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! We’re truly grateful for your trust and are so glad Dr. Thoms and our team could make the experience as comfortable and reassuring as possible for your family. It means the world to know you felt supported every step of the way!
Always a great experience. Carrie does a wonderful job keeping my smile healthy and bright. Dr. Thoms is always very nice and professional. They make going to the dentist much less stressful!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback! We're so glad Carrie and Dr. Thoms have made your visits comfortable and enjoyable.
The Dental Anesthesia Center (DAC) is truly unique. They provide all forms of anesthesia - and a wide range of dental treatments. I have been a patient there for 17 years - and I continue to be impressed with the legacy of expertise and kindness built by Dr. Hoffmann and his team.
If your dental phobia and dental issues have made you feel hopeless ... I encourage you to contact the DAC for a consultation. That's what I did 17 years ago - and it proved to be a very good decision and a true blessing.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued trust and kind words! We're honored to have be part of your journey. It means so much to know we've made a lasting impact—your story is truly inspiring!
I just had my first visit with Dr. Thoms. He took his time and thoroughly explained everything to me about sedation and dental procedures. He is extremely knowledgeable and very friendly. Comfort of their patients is utmost in their minds at this practice and Dr. Thoms, Emily and Robyn are outstanding! Highly recommended!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so glad your visit with Dr. Thoms was a great experience. We truly appreciate your kind words about our team and are grateful for your recommendation!
I just had my implant surgery 3/22 with Dr. Thoms.The patients Dr. Thoms has with me is simply INCREDIBLE!!!!! I know I’m a lot to deal with. I am so blessed to have crossed paths with Dr. Thoms.His entire staff goes above and beyond ANY dental office I’ve ever dealt with in the past. from the bottom of my heart, I am so glad that I made the decision to try the dental anesthesia center..
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your heartfelt words! We're truly grateful you chose us and are honored to be part of your journey. Dr. Thoms and the entire team are so glad to have made a positive impact—your trust means everything to us!
Dr. Hoffman and team are the most amazing dental team you will ever meet. Have been a patient for years and will continue to do so. If you have nerves about going to the dentist, they will eliminate those fears very quickly.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and continued trust in our team! We're so glad to hear you've had a positive experience. We truly appreciate your support!
AS I SIT HERE THIS MORNING I AM GRATEFUL FOR GOD'S MERCY AND THE STAFF OF DOC. HOFFMAN !!! I AM HOWEVER STILL TO EMBARRASSED FOR THE WALK OF SHAME BRINGING HIS GIFT . I LOST TWO DAYS AND WAS CHOKING ON 19 STICHES EATING SUCKERS SAME DAY SEEMS TO BE WITH MYSELF !!! SO WITH MY SINCERE APPRECIATION, I APOLOGIZE TO ALL !!! EXCELLENT SKILLS IN ALL ASPECTS.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your 5 star review. We appreciate your support.
As a 73 year old man, I have been to several dentist’s and none compare to Dr. Thoms and Dr. Behl. The entire staff is very knowledgeable and accommodating. I have had some major work done and I/V sedation is definitely the way to go. Five stars to the entire team at DAC. I highly recommend their services.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We truly appreciate your trust in our team. It’s always our goal to provide comfortable, high-quality care to every patient.
These folks are great!! Always very professional and personable and don't try to over sell you on what you need done!! I would highly recommend!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind review! We’re glad to hear you’ve had a positive experience with our team. Your recommendation means a lot to us!
I love my friends at the Dental Anesthesia Center! This place has the nicest clinical staff and they do such a wonderful job for any issue that arises. They are prompt and thorough. I love all the hygienists, but especially my personal hygienist, Carrie. My dentist, Dr. Biehl is knowledgeable, friendly, highly skilled and fun.
I started taking my kids here when they needed procedures under anesthesia. Once my former dentist retired (and I realized the DAC also does family dentistry), I switched the entire family to this office. Best decision I ever made.
I’m also so impressed with the experience this team has treating individuals with special needs.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the time to post your kind review!
I went for a consultation at the center. I was terrified. I saw Dr.Sean Thoms he was so professional and caring. I have had five different consultations at other dentist offices trying to make a final decision on who I feel more comfortable with and no other doctor was as caring or attentive as Dr. Thoms. He called me a couple of days later with SEVERAL different ways he could give the results I wanted. I’m truly blessed to have found Dr Thoms. The entire staff was so professional and attentive. I have made the final decision to put my care in the hands of Dr Sean Thoms
Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us, Juanita. Your positive words mean so much to us.
Cheers,
The Dental Anesthesia Center
Maris E. Behl DDS Is a wonderful dentist. She did extensive work including several dental crowns and fillings. There was little to no pain during all of her procedure’s. I am 86 years old and have been to more dentists than I can count. Dr Behl is by far the best of all. If you want a friendly disciplined and accomplished dentist, you will be glad you used her work.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, James. We really appreciate you taking the time out to share your experience with us.
Cheers,
The Dental Anesthesia Center
