Avoid caffeine before a dental appointment.

Eat high-protein foods which – unlike sugary foods – produce a calming effect.

1. Share your fears: Trust and communication can benefit both you and your dentist. 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.

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

This might mean a Saturday or an early-morning appointment.

You can learn some basic hand signals from the dentist itself to communicate during the procedure. When you feel uncomfortable, signal the dentist to ease off or stop the procedure. This also avoids any mishap from happening while your dentist is treating your teeth with a running instrument.

If the sound of the drill bothers you, bring along your favorite music playlist and earphones.

It is totally okay to listen to music through your headphone during a dental treatment.

Dental phobia is real. Why the fear of the dentist?

People are anxious about dental visits for different reasons.

Some anticipate pain. Others worry that the dentist might be rushed or neglect their concerns. Additional stressors include negative memories of past expe...