Hi K.!
I have had a very similar experience. My son was not quite 2 yet and I noticed problems with his teeth. At that point I took him to a pediatric dentist who gave me a very grim outlook. He (without doing any Xrays or even cleaning my baby's teeth!) declared that he had 8 cavities that required baby root canals immediately. Of course, for this they would have to put him under general anesthesia and do the work. My son was scared and crying and they refused to even clean his teeth without anesthesia! The total prescribed work was almost $4000!!!
I was VERY uncomfortable with the idea of putting my baby under general anesthesia. There is a small risk of death and I was not willing to risk that.
Thankfully, I gathered myself together (feeling like the world's WORST mother!) and got my son in to a second pediatric dentist for a 2nd opinion. He looked in my baby's mouth and had an entirely DIFFERENT result. They actually cleaned his teeth and inspected closely before telling me that yes he had 4 cavities (these I could see and knew about) and that was it. Also, that he has very very soft enamel and that is why this was happening to him. His recommendation was to fill those cavities and watch his teeth closely. We did that 2 years ago and he has been perfectly fine! Total cost less than $300 (with my discount plan)!!! And NO anesthesia. He was scared and he did cry, but it was a very short procedure!
So, my advice is to seek a second opinion. And I would avoid putting her under if you can. Yes, these teeth need filling to prevent spread of decay, but I think your dentist is a little over-zealous!
If you are in need of a dental plan check out www.SplendidTeeth.com - this is my website and I can help you save some money on this and the rest of your family's dental needs.
Good luck!
M.