For as long as I can remember, the dentist has always been the one thing that stirs up a lot of anxiety in me.

My parents and I all share the same trait that makes us very prone to cavities, and therefore every visit to the dentist tends to lead to bad news and painful work being done.

As an adult now, I do my best to take care of my teeth but still the the very idea of going to the dentist is enough to put me high on edge and unable to focus or find calm. 

In my day to day I don’t usually have much anxiety, however I am a worry-wort when it comes to medical related concerns and always assuming the worst things when I get hurt or sick. I’ve had a few very unique medical scares that have fed that worry, and naturally the dentist fits right into that. 

Can anyone lend any tips for managing that and finding a way to muscle through? I try to do breathing exercises when I feel extremely anxious and ancy, but I’m looking to overcome fear and anxiety related to the dentist!