Any advice for a nervous dental patient?

Try what works: There are numerous ways to reduce nerves prior to dental visits..It depends on what you are comfortable with...Do you want medication or a more natural approach? Things that work...Hypnosis, valium/xanax (oral sedation), nitrous, twilight sedation (if very severe anxiety). Discuss with doc what may be done and what feels right for you.

Relax: First find a dentist that you feel comfortable with. Ask friends and family for recommendations. Second make sure your first visit is to only have things checked. Third trust your instincts. If the first visit goes well and you have a good rapport with the dentist and staff then you can talk with the doctor about using nitrous oxide or oral sedatives to help you relax during treatment.

Begun nervousness: Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can help while in the chair, also listening to music with a headset helps. If you are severely nervous talk to your dentists about a mild sedative before the appointment like valium or ativan.