You may feel all alone at times, but a fear of the dentist is more common than you think.  Although this problem may seem minor, it can be costly - people who are scared of the dentist tend to avoid visiting the dentist entirely.  The resulting delays in receiving necessary dental work and checkups often mean more expensive dental work needs to be undertaken later on.  For this reason, any fear or nervousness you feel about the dentist should be confronted head on.  Fortunately, thanks to many modern options available, it's easier than ever to feel relaxed in the dentist's chair.  Here are three ways to feel more at ease if you're scared of the dentist:

1. Find a Dental Office With a Relaxing Environment

The right environment can make all the difference in the world.  For many people, dental fears are triggered by a sterile and clinical dental office. Visit different dental offices to make your decision on who you want your dentist to be.  Choose one that makes you feel the most at ease, perhaps due to plants, artwork on the walls, or even just the building's layout.  Surprisingly, little things like this can make a big difference when it comes to feeling better about the dentist.

2. Communicate with the Dentist

You should be comfortable talking to your dentist about your worries and concerns.  Find a dentist who you aren't afraid to talk to and who is happy to address any concerns that you should have.  Remember: don't be afraid to ask questions.  The best dentists will listen to you patiently and make sure all of your questions are answered.

3. Try Sedation Dentistry

Sedation therapy involves the use of safe sedatives to help you feel calmer and more relaxed at the dentist.  Some of these sedatives include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), anti-depressants, or anti-anxiety drugs.  Depending on the type of sedative, these can be either inhaled or delivered intravenously.  The use of sedatives is an excellent and painless way to help you conquer your fears of the dentist.  The sedatives help to ensure a comfortable experience and can even make your time at the dentist feel like it's going by quickly.  Talk to your dentist about sedation dentistry if you feel this solution is right for you.

Going to the dentist doesn't have to be a scary experience.  With some research to find the right dental office for you, a dentist who you have a rapport with, and sedation dentistry options, you'll be able to work on overcoming your fears and have both a great experience as well as a great smile.