No, unless you prefer to! I feel that it is very important to have parents involved in their child’s dental experiences.  Being in the room allows you to learn about diet, oral hygiene and also we can show you any worrying teeth and explain x-rays.  When treatment is being carried out having a parent in the room as a passive observer, reading a magazine etc can be a very comforting presence for the child.  We also welcome siblings into the room on check visits so they can see positive dental experiences and maybe even have a go on the ‘magic chair’!!  If you are very anxious about dentistry yourself and prefer not to be present, it is fine to wait in the waiting room or ask another family member to accompany your child on subsequent visits.