Do you have to psyche yourself up before going to the dentist?

When I was 11 I had a fall off the side of a high dive (10 feet) and hit the concrete breaking my jaw and shattering several of my teeth - also had a concussion and since I did, and they had to deal with the shattered teeth first, I had several teeth pulled without benefit of novocaine (or whatever they used back in the dark ages) - the pain was indescribable and I passed out a couple of times during the process. Then on to getting the jaw wired shut... not fun.

Ever since that day I've, shall we say, disliked dentists and really have to psyche up to go. Cleanings aren't too bad, that I can deal with, but when it comes to anything more, I tell the dentist, knock me out or this ain't happening!