[Deana]

I hated the dentist for such a long time and avoided going for 12 years. Which was a huge mistake b/c at age 27, I had to get 9 cavities filled.

I found a great dentist who was so gentle and wonderful. Unfortuately, he retired and his not-so-gentle partner took over. I realized that I had to tell them about my fears and anxiety BEFORE I even sat down in the chair. They gave me hand signals for stop and pain, and became aware of my twitches/etc and were very good at asking me how things were going during cleanings and one cavity filling (which took place while I was pregnant, and they couldn't use the good anesthetic-- they were great during that!!).
Now I'm sad to say that they aren't on our insurance anymore. I need to find another dentist. But I KNOW I will be telling the hygenist/dentist about my worries and anxiety before I even sit in the chair. I think they kind of expect that.