In-office sedation lets you have your dental procedure comfortably and safely, in your dentist's office, with a physician anesthesiologist managing your anesthesia from start to finish. Dr. David Williams has personally delivered more than 13,000 in-office anesthetics across 25+ years. The pages below answer the questions patients ask most often.
Frequently Asked Questions.
What is in-office sedation dentistry?
A physician anesthesiologist keeps you comfortable, relaxed, and pain-free during your dental procedure, right in your dentist's office. No hospital. No surgery center. Your anesthesia is managed by Dr. David Williams, MD, an anesthesiologist with 25+ years of experience.
Is it safe?
Yes. Who delivers your anesthesia is the reason. Dr. Williams is a physician anesthesiologist (MD), not a provider working alone. He brings a clinical care team of nurses and medical assistants, hospital-grade monitoring, and emergency equipment to every procedure, and follows Texas Medical Board standards. Across 13,000+ cases, he has a 100% nasal intubation success rate.
Will I be completely asleep?
It depends on your procedure and your dentist's plan. Most patients have no awareness during the procedure. Dr. Williams tailors the anesthesia to your health, your history, and the work being done, so the plan fits the patient.
What if I have a medical condition?
This is where experience matters most. Dr. Williams has specialized training in cardiology, critical care, and airway management, and routinely cares for patients with cardiac conditions, respiratory issues, and complex histories. Before your procedure, his team reviews your complete history, gathers your records and consults, and when needed, Dr. Williams coordinates directly with your other physicians.
What happens beforehand?
Dr. Williams' team contacts you before your procedure day to review your medical history, medications, and answer your questions. You may also receive instructions from your dental office. You will know exactly what to expect.
How long is recovery?
Most patients are ready to leave within about 30 minutes of the procedure ending. Fewer than 1% experience post-op nausea, so you are far more likely to leave feeling clear-headed and well.
Will someone follow up after?
Yes. Dr. Williams' team follows up after your procedure to check on your recovery. Dr. Williams is also personally reachable for any concern, before or after.
How do I prepare?
Preparation depends on your specific procedure and your medical history. Dr. Williams' team will give you exact instructions during your pre-procedure call. General guidance for most cases:
- Nothing to eat or drink after 11pm the night before your procedure
- Clear liquids (water, apple juice, Gatorade) may be allowed up to 3 hours before if your procedure is later in the day, per the team's instructions
- No milk, dairy, or orange juice
- Comfortable two-piece clothing, no jewelry, no dark nail polish
- Take regular medications with a sip of water unless told otherwise
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home
How much does it cost?
Cost varies by procedure, by length, and by whether your case requires advanced care. Texan AA is out of network with all commercial insurance carriers, but we will file with your medical insurance to attempt to collect for the services provided. CareCredit is accepted as a financing option. During your pre-procedure call, our team will walk through your specific cost and what your insurance is likely to do.
Can I request Dr. Williams specifically?
Yes. You can tell your dental office you would like Dr. David Williams from Texan Anesthesiology Association for your procedure.
