I'm not as afraid of dentists as I used to be...however, it's been a long time since I've been to one, so I will probably find myself more nervous when I go back.

I have had several root canals, and I'm pretty sure I need two or three more. However, I can't afford it, and I'm worried, because I do experience tooth pain sometimes. My teeth are very bad, because my parents didn't teach me to or make me take care of my teeth when I was young. I brush them regularly now, but it took me to get into my 20's before I developed that habit.

Ruby, I sympathize with you. Personally, I think it's better to get it over with. Most of the time, root canals aren't as bad as they say (not that they're fun), and you know this time around won't be as bad. Still, I'm kind of put off by your dentist not getting the job done right the first time. I don't know, maybe that's not so uncommon, but I've never had it happen.

Some dentists do open your jaw too damned wide. Is that what happened to you when you were younger? I've had worries of having my jaw opened too wide...it seems it happened more when I was younger than as an adult. I think some doctors, dentists and adults in general poo-poo when a child or young person complains he's uncomfortable or in pain.

If you could get one of those things you squeeze when you're stressed, or just something to touch (something with lots of different textures or features to it is good) while you're in the dentist's chair might help. Try to focus your mind on the object in your hand, feel it and try to guess what you're touching (if it's a stuffed animal, are you touching the eyes? Nose? Ears?), concentrate on the texture, etc. It can help distract you and also calm you.