How do you make going to the dentist less painful?!

How do you make going to the dentist less painful?

I'm 30 years old, and all my life I've hated going to the dentist. My first dentist as a child was sadistic and my mouth would hurt for days after going in for a cleaning. In the last 10 years I've only been to the dentist less than 10 times, including having my wisdom teeth out. Also, novocaine does not work on me which I found out while having my wisdom teeth out. The last time I went to the dentist I had my teeth "scaled" (I think that's what they called it) and this was several years ago. I brush and floss regularly and have never had a cavity or any other problems. I do have one tooth that is starting to hurt occasionally, mainly when drinking cold beverages so I'm thinking I'll have to visit the dreaded dentist again. So my question is, since it's been so long between cleanings, and they are so painful for me, what can I do to ease the pain? I've tried pain relievers before I go to see him, but is there anything I should be asking the dentist to do? Short of knocking me out???

Many Dentists no longer use Novocaine. There are new stronger and safer anesthetics. The Dentist should be able to make you numb for procedures.
The procedure you probably had done before was called scaling and root planing, performed by the hygienist. . If you go to the dentist regularly they will not have to perform this procedure. Since it has been awhile explain your sensitivity. There are many topical like gels or sprays they can put on your gums for numbing that last about 1/2 hour.
Find a dentist that is not going to push you in and out like a number. Find someone that will remember you and make you feel at ease. Build a relationship and you will feel more comfortable with the whole process.
Good luck!