Nearly 25 % of all adult Americans experience fear of going to the dentist. There are several causes; such as, a bad childhood experience that led to trauma, fear of pain or, an over anxiety of having someone poke around in one's mouth.
Request or schedule for a consultation visit first and prepare questions to ask the dentist. You may ask about his qualifications, the way he handles his work, relieving pain and how he assists his patients conquer worry of their dental check up.
Talk to your dentist and make yourself comfortable, tell him what you feel so you will be given an explanation that could lessen your fear or prejudice. Dentists are health care professionals who just want to help you with your oral health, and generally won't judge you or the state of your mouth or make your experience traumatic.
The last thing you need to do is positively talk to yourself; tell yourself you could do it and that it's okay. You can also tell yourself to be optimistic you're in good hands.