Worried About The Dentist? You’re Not Alone.
If the sound of a dental drill raises your heart rate, you’re in good company. Dental anxiety is extremely common, and it can keep people from getting the care they need.
Sedation dentistry
offers safe, proven ways to take the edge off—so you can sit back, breathe easier, and get treatment completed comfortably.
Sedation Options We Offer
Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”)
How it feels:
Light, calm, and relaxed within minutes.
Great for:
Mild anxiety, kids, quick appointments.
Bonus:
Wears off fast—you can usually drive yourself home.
Oral Conscious Sedation
How it feels:
Deeper relaxation via a prescribed pill taken before your visit.
Great for:
Moderate anxiety, longer appointments, strong gag reflex.
Note:
You’ll need a
driver
to and from your appointment.
IV Sedation (When Appropriate)
How it feels:
The deepest level we typically use in-office; you’re responsive but very relaxed, and time passes quickly.
Great for:
Significant anxiety, complex or multi-procedure visits.
Note:
Close monitoring throughout for your safety.
Safety: Our First Priority
Pre-visit health review:
Medications, allergies, and medical history are carefully assessed.
Tailored dosing:
Based on body weight, age, and health status.
Continuous monitoring:
Blood pressure, oxygen levels, heart rate.
Trained team:
Experienced clinicians follow evidence-based protocols.
Who Benefits Most?
People with dental anxiety or past negative experiences
Patients needing multiple treatments
completed efficiently
Those with a strong gag reflex or difficulty getting numb
Patients with sensitive teeth
or complex cases
What Sedation Does—and Doesn’t—Do
Sedation
reduces anxiety
and
increases comfort
, but it doesn’t replace local anesthesia. You’ll still be numbed for procedures so you remain comfortable during treatment. Most patients remember little of the appointment and report that time flew by.
Preparing For Your Sedation Visit
Follow pre-op instructions
(including fasting, if advised).
Arrange a driver
for oral or IV sedation.
Wear comfortable clothing
and avoid heavy meals beforehand.
Plan a light day
after the appointment to rest.
Aftercare: What To Expect
Mild drowsiness is common, especially after oral or IV sedation. Plan to relax at home, sip fluids, and eat soft foods as needed. We’ll provide personalized instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Benefits Beyond Comfort
When anxiety goes down, care gets better. Sedation can help you
complete more treatment in fewer visits
, reduce muscle tension or jaw fatigue, and make it easier to maintain your oral health—without fear standing in the way.
Your Next Step
Ready to experience calmer care in
San Antonio
?
Call AB Dental & Oral Surgery at 210-682-2700
to
Schedule a Consultation
and learn which sedation option best fits your needs.
