First Cavities

I don't know that this is a hard and fast rule in all offices. I know in our office they prefer the children to be alone but they don't necessarily forbid Mom to come with. It just helps them to be able to communicate better with the child because the child is not "distracted" by Mom's presence. It is also beneficial for building the child's trust in their dentist. The dentist isn't there to hurt the child but to help. It should ideally remain a lifelong relationship of trust. From their first visit I have always taken my child back to the exam room and said a cheerful see you later. They are not afraid of the dentist (in fact my daughter was just asking me if she could go again soon)

If there is a valid reason you don't trust this dentist then perhaps it might be good to find a different one. Other than that, I don't know what else to tell you if you are worried, except to be brave, pray, help your child trust, reassure that you will be waiting in the next room.

When Andie had her root canal, I was not in the room. I had the option of being in the waiting room or watching from a room next door through a window. I opted for the waiting room, simply because she was under general anesthesia and she didn't know if I was there or not. Also, I didn't think I could handle it!! *bleah*

But as far as fillings go, I'd think that if both you and your child wanted you in there, the dentist shouldn't have a problem with that. If he/she is denying you that, then I'd either insist, or find another dentist. It's totally understandable that your child is nervous and apprehensive about getting cavities filled. After the first time, when they see it's not a big deal, then they might not need you in there with them.

Find a dentist that both you and your kids feel comfortable with. My oldest daughter's first experience with the dentist was a nightmare...such a simple thing like cleaning her teeth...she was nervous, and instead of trying to calm her down, they tried to force her (by holding her down!!! Oooooh! I was SO MAD! ). I most definitely changed dentists after that.

I love our dentist now (both my girls just got cleanings a few days ago). They don't force anything on them...they're very sensitive to the children's fears and anxieties...and they do whatever they can to make the experience pleasent and fun. Our office allows parents in the room for anything except x-rays (radiation and all) if you choose to be there.

They explain everything that's going on to the kids, let them play with the water squirter and the vacuum sucker thing, lol, let them pick their favorite flavors for tooth polish, toothpaste, etc, let them watch cartoons while they're working on them....and they even put in my oldest's chart that she doesn't like mint so they can be sure not to use anything mint flavored in the future.

Call around, and don't be afraid to ask questions. I called about 20 offices and explained my daughter's traumatic first experience and made sure that we weren't going to have a repeat. I'm so glad I did...now, both my girls are excited about the dentist instead of afraid.