Expert Care from Atlanta Oral & Facial Surgery (AOFS)
Dental fear and anxiety are among the most common reasons patients postpone or avoid oral surgery — but at Atlanta Oral & Facial Surgery (AOFS), our team is dedicated to making your experience comfortable, calm, and pain-free. Whether you’re having wisdom teeth removed, dental implants placed, or another procedure, AOFS offers advanced sedation and pain management options to help you relax before, during, and after your visit.
This comprehensive guide combines the latest information from all eight of our patient education articles into a single, easy-to-understand resource — focused on Atlanta-specific care, sedation costs, and recovery support.
Understanding Dental Anxiety
Why Dental Fear Happens
Dental anxiety can stem from a variety of factors:
- Previous negative experiences or pain during past dental work
- Fear of needles or anesthesia
- Concern about loss of control during the procedure
- Generalized anxiety or sensory sensitivity to sounds, smells, or equipment
At AOFS, we recognize that these feelings are real and common — affecting nearly 1 in 3 adults to some degree. Our mission is to create a safe, judgment-free environment where patients can express concerns openly and receive customized reassurance and support.
Sedation Options Available in Atlanta
Every patient’s comfort level and procedure type are different, which is why AOFS provides a full range of anesthesia and sedation options tailored to your individual needs. Our surgeons are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons, trained extensively in anesthesia administration and safety.
1. Local Anesthesia
- Best for: Minor procedures or patients with minimal anxiety
- Effect: Numbs the surgical site while you remain fully awake and alert
- Duration: 1–3 hours
2. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
- Best for: Mild to moderate anxiety
- Effect: Induces a calm, relaxed state; wears off quickly after the procedure
- Recovery: You can typically drive yourself home afterward
3. Oral Sedation
- Best for: Moderate anxiety or longer procedures
- Effect: A prescribed oral medication (such as diazepam or triazolam) helps you relax while remaining conscious and responsive
- Preparation: Requires an escort home afterward
4. IV Sedation (Twilight Sedation)
- Best for: Moderate to severe dental anxiety, or complex procedures
- Effect: A combination of medications administered intravenously provides deep relaxation and partial or complete amnesia of the procedure
- Monitoring: Continuous heart rate, oxygen, and blood pressure monitoring throughout
5. General Anesthesia
- Best for: Surgical cases requiring full unconsciousness or multiple procedures at once
- Effect: You are completely asleep and unaware of the procedure
- Administered by: Board-certified oral surgeons with hospital-level training
All sedation options are administered under strict safety protocols following American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) standards.
Learn more or schedule a sedation consultation: Contact AOFS: https://www.atlantaoralandfacialsurgery.com/contact/
Pain Management During & After Surgery
At AOFS, your comfort extends beyond the operating room. Our pain management protocols combine advanced local anesthetics, anti-inflammatory medications, and cold therapy to minimize discomfort.
In-Procedure Pain Control
- Local anesthetics block nerve signals at the surgical site for hours of comfort.
- Sedation medications ensure you feel relaxed and detached from any sensations.
- Gentle surgical techniques reduce tissue trauma, resulting in faster recovery and less postoperative swelling.
After Surgery
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen are typically sufficient for mild discomfort.
- Prescription pain medication may be provided for more complex procedures.
- Cold compresses can help manage swelling for the first 24–48 hours.
- 24/7 on-call support is available for any pain or complication concerns.
What to Expect Step-by-Step
- Consultation & Comfort Planning
Your surgeon reviews your medical history, discusses fears or concerns, and recommends the best sedation option. You’ll receive detailed instructions on eating, drinking, and medications prior to surgery. - Arrival & Pre-Surgery Preparation
You’ll be greeted by our friendly staff and prepped in a calm, private environment. If IV sedation or general anesthesia is used, monitors will be attached for safety. - During Surgery
You’ll be fully numb or sedated. Most patients report remembering little to nothing about the procedure. Your surgeon and anesthesia team will closely monitor you throughout. - Recovery & Discharge
You’ll rest in our recovery area until alert and comfortable. Written home-care instructions will be reviewed with your escort or caregiver. - Postoperative Support
Our team provides follow-up calls and remains available for questions or concerns during healing.
Coping Strategies for Dental Anxiety
While sedation helps immensely, we also encourage patients to use psychological and behavioral techniques that can reduce anxiety before and during appointments.
1. Communication
Tell your surgeon or staff about your fears — we can tailor the experience to you (extra numbing, breaks, or sedation adjustments).
2. Distraction
Bring headphones and listen to calming music or guided meditations during preparation or minor procedures.
3. Breathing Exercises
Practice slow, deep breathing — inhale through the nose for 4 seconds, hold for 2, exhale through the mouth for 6.
4. Bring a Support Person
Having a trusted friend or family member present can provide reassurance.
5. Schedule Morning Appointments
Minimizes time for anxiety to build during the day and allows a calmer environment.
Cost of Sedation & Anxiety Management in Atlanta
Sedation and anesthesia costs vary depending on the type of sedation, duration, and procedure complexity. Below are typical ranges for AOFS patients in the Atlanta area:
| Sedation Type | Estimated Cost (Per Visit) | Notes |
| Nitrous Oxide | $75 – $150 | Quick recovery, great for mild anxiety |
| Oral Sedation | $150 – $350 | Requires prescription & escort |
| IV Sedation | $400 – $1,200 | Most popular option for comfort |
| General Anesthesia | $600 – $1,500+ | For complex or multiple procedures |
| Local Anesthesia (alone) | Usually included | Minimal or no extra charge |
Insurance Coverage:
Many insurance plans cover sedation partially or in full when deemed medically necessary. AOFS also offers CareCredit and in-house financing to make treatment affordable.
For a personalized cost estimate, contact AOFS today: www.atlantaoralandfacialsurgery.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they put you to sleep during oral surgery?
That depends on your chosen sedation level. For many procedures, patients opt for IV or general anesthesia, which allows you to sleep through surgery comfortably and safely.
Is sedation safe?
Yes. All sedation procedures at AOFS are performed by board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons trained in anesthesia safety. Vital signs are continuously monitored throughout your procedure.
Will I feel pain during the procedure?
No. Local anesthetic combined with sedation ensures a completely pain-free experience.
How long does it take for sedation to wear off?
Most patients recover from IV or general anesthesia within 30–60 minutes post-procedure. You’ll need an escort home and should rest for the remainder of the day.
Can I eat before sedation?
Patients must avoid food and drink for 6–8 hours before IV or general anesthesia. Your AOFS team will provide specific instructions.
Why Our Atlanta Practice Is Fear-Free
Experience You Can Trust
With over 40 years of expertise, AOFS has earned a reputation as Atlanta’s premier oral surgery provider for compassionate, anxiety-free care.
Comprehensive Sedation Services
Our surgeons are among the few in the region licensed to administer all levels of anesthesia in-office, from mild nitrous oxide to full general anesthesia.
Patient-Centered Comfort
Every AOFS office is designed to promote relaxation — quiet rooms, gentle lighting, and staff trained in managing anxious patients.
24/7 Postoperative Support
If you have concerns after your procedure, AOFS offers round-the-clock on-call coverage to address emergencies or answer recovery questions.
Convenient Atlanta Locations
With multiple offices across metro Atlanta, including Buckhead, Alpharetta, Marietta, and Decatur, high-quality care is always nearby.
Take the First Step Toward Stress-Free Oral Surgery
You deserve a confident, comfortable experience — free from fear. Whether you’re preparing for dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, or another procedure, the caring team at Atlanta Oral & Facial Surgery will help you every step of the way.
Schedule your anxiety-free consultation today: Contact AOFS: www.atlantaoralandfacialsurgery.com
