Many people don't particularly enjoy going to the dentist's office. Dental anxiety is common, but it's important to push past this discomfort to get the quality dental care you need. Clearing up misconceptions about dental treatment and learning more about common dental procedures can help patients feel more secure. Here are four facts that can set you at ease before your next trip to the dentist's office:

1. You don't have to clean your teeth beforehand

Many people think they have to brush and floss their teeth before going to the dentist's office. It's natural to want to make a good impression on the people that you meet throughout the day. However, there's no need to impress your dentist. Your dentist is there to help you care for your teeth, not to judge you. Most dentists give their patients a portion of antibacterial mouthwash to use at the start of their dental appointments. Any plaque still lingering on your teeth will be cleaned away during the tooth polishing and scaling portions of your dental exam.

2. Your dentist won't judge you for imperfect home dental care

During your dental appointment, your dentist will ask you if you've been brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Dentists generally advise people to brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily. In a perfect world, you would follow these recommendations. However, life can be hectic, and it's easy to forget to care for your teeth the way you should. Be honest when answering your dentist's questions about home care. Your dentist won't scold or judge you. They simply need to know about your oral care so they can make the appropriate recommendations to help you achieve healthy teeth.

3. Your dentist is used to nervous patients

Some people worry that their dentist will think poorly of them if they're visibly nervous. However, dentists see many patients with a variety of dental phobias. No matter how much trepidation you feel, you can rest assured that your dentist has seen it before. Your dentist will do their best to make you feel comfortable throughout your appointment.

4. Your trip to the dentist's office is probably covered by insurance

Dental insurance can make dental care affordable. Most dental insurance plans completely cover the cost of preventative care, including biannual exams and annual x-rays. Restorative treatments and emergency dental appointments are often partially covered as well. If you have dental insurance, you don't need to worry about being able to afford dental care.