Parent child separation during dental care: a survey of parent's preference.

Seventy-nine parents were surveyed to determine if they preferred to be present when their children underwent dental care. The participants were asked to complete a closed-ended questionnaire before the visit. Sixty-six per cent of the parents wanted to be present with their child for care. Of the parents wishing to accompany their children, 85% responded that they would feel better, and 92% believed the child would feel better. Of the 34% of parents who did not wish to be present, most felt that their children were old enough to receive treatment by themselves (82%), or their presence might cause the child to misbehave (63%). There was no significant difference (P < .01) between the two groups concerning military status, education level, parent's age, parent's previous dental experience, or having other children in the family. Sixty-seven per cent of the parents previously had accompanied their children into the dental operatory. Generally, parents who wanted to be present had younger children, or children making an initial dental visit.