Dentists have been dealing with dental phobia since the dawn of dentistry, and over the years have developed specific techniques that can mitigate fear and anxiety and put patients at ease. Because anxiety generally causes hyperventilation and panic, deep breathing is still one of the best ways to manage any kind of anxiety, including dental anxiety. If a dentist notices that their patient seems uncomfortable during their appointment, they can take a moment’s pause and advise them to try some basic deep breathing exercises before continuing.  Distractions in the operating room can keep patients’ minds off of any discomfort or fear they are experiencing; one of the most popular ways to achieve this is by having a television in the room or allowing a friend or family member to be in the room during the checkup, especially for children who experience dental anxiety.  The most popular way to calm patients and treat more severe dental anxiety that is actively interfering with an appointment is medication, such as laughing gas.