If you have a fear of your dentist, it is a good idea to talk to them about it. If they know what you are dealing with, they can begin to put things in place to make your visit less stressful.   Sometimes, having the procedure explained by your dentist will reduce stress because you will know what will be happening.   Your dentist can allow you to have some time in the dental chair before the procedure begins so that you can try to relax and become more comfortable in that environment.   People who are afraid of pain often fear the dentist. Your dentist can use different forms of anesthesia to reduce the pain. Topical anesthesia can be used before a needle is inserted. Local anesthesia will numb the pain for longer and work on the area being treated.   Your dentist may choose to prescribe anti-anxiety medications if your fear is mild to moderately severe. These can be taken about an hour before your appointment to help you relax. In very severe cases, general anesthesia may be used to put you in a deep sleep, which will allow for the dental procedure to go forward.