Focus on breathing regularly and slowly during dental procedures. When people are nervous they tend to hold their breath, which decreases oxygen levels and further increases feelings of panic

Bring a Companion During Appointments. Having someone with you on a dental appointment, may it be a friend or family member, can offer an extra layer of support and assurance.

Listen to some tunes. If the sound of the drill bothers you, bring along your favorite music and earphones.

Watch what you eat and drink. Avoid caffeine before a dental appointment. Eat high-protein foods which – unlike sugary foods – produce a calming effect.

Use hand signals. Empower yourself by agreeing on hand signals to communicate with your dentist. When you feel uncomfortable, signal the dentist to ease off or stop the procedure.

Choose a low-stress appointment time. Select a time for your dental visit when you’re less likely to be rushed or under pressure.

Consider additional medication to relax.

Use Mindfulness. Research shows that mindfulness reduces anxiety by 70 percent. Mindfulness is all about controlling your breathing and observing negative thought patterns. Practice it the night before your next dental exam to reduce stress.

Recognize your Fears. To better understand your feelings and address them, you need to come into terms with your anxiety or fear of going to the dentist. Write your fears down, so that you can talk about them better. Listing your fears will not just help you recognize them, but also aid your dentist in explaining what’s causing your anxiety or phobia and helping you deal with it.

Share your fears. If you're tense or anxious, tell your dentist and the dental staff. Expressing your concerns will help your dentist adapt the treatment to your needs.