to expect my 7yr old to be OK about going to the dentist?

[beanpot]

I took my DS to dentist and he freaked. He's been before, but this time after seeing monsters inc decided the dentist was going to use the scream catcher and totally went to pieces, crying, begging to be let go. He needs a filling (awful in itself...guilt guilt guilt), but he won't let anyone near him...

any suggestions?

I had this with my DD many years ago. I called the dentist in advance and told her the problem. She was really helpful and for the first few visits she didn't even look at her teeth. She just talked to her, from a distance, and reassured her. She went from standing on the opposite side of the room, showing the dentist her teeth from that distance, to sitting in the chair. She's almost 18 now and goes to the dentist regularly. Hope this helps.

thanks...I have booked a double appointment...fingers crossed. my DH has banned all chocolate until he gets them sorted, and he's taken it really well. Appt booked for 12th though, so he can only look at his choc stash tomorrow....

And don't let him watch Finding Nemo either - very inattentive dentist there!

I'm sure the dentist will help. My DD2 (albeit younger) had to go through several sessions where she just sat on the couch, laid down on the couch, opened her mouth just a little, let the dentist take a quick look, etc. She's forgotten all about it now (9).