Dentists usually avoid parental presence in the dental operatory but parents often wish to stay with their child. The aim of this study was to assess the attitude of the parents on separation from their children during dental treatment and the factors affecting their preferences. A pre-validated set of 15 questions were asked to one hundred & fifty parents, who were eligible for the study, after taking an informed consent & briefing them about the study. Children of age group 5-14 years were included in this study. Out of 150 parents, 70% (n=105) parents preferred to stay with their child during the dental treatment whereas 30% of parents did not prefer to stay. This difference was satisfactorily significant (p<0.05). If given a choice majority of parents desire to stay with their child during treatment procedures. Understanding the protective nature of the parent, dentists should allow parents in the dental operatory, thus helping in a positive dental experience of the child.
