The tooth fairy is an iconic symbol used throughout history to teach children the importance of dental health. But where did she originate from, and how can she help you instill lifelong dental care habits in your kids? Below, the friendly dentist at Alaska Dentistry for Kids, the premier dental practice in Anchorage, is here to shed some light on the history of the whimsical tooth fairy.

History of the Tooth Fairy

The tooth fairy can be traced back to early Norse and European traditions, in which it was said that burying your children’s baby teeth could spare them from tough trials in their next life. Later on, in countries such as Spain and France, the myth was that once a child lost their sixth baby tooth, a mouse or rabbit would come to collect it and leave a gift in its place. In the early 1920s, the tooth fairy gained popularity in the United States, being featured in books, television shows, and movies.

Modern Day Tooth Fairy

Depending on family tradition or parent preference, the “tooth fairy” would leave a gift behind in place of a tooth. Most parents tell their children to leave their baby tooth under a pillow or glass, and they then sneak in during the night to swap it for a dollar bill or some change. However, to improve your child’s dental health, you can also use the tooth fairy to encourage good habits. This can include leaving fun toothbrushes or flavored toothpaste beneath the pillow instead of money or reading bedtime stories about the tooth fairy and the importance of oral health.

Dental health extends beyond the introduction of the tooth fairy; it’s also important to schedule biannual cleanings for your kids. For the premier family dentist in Anchorage, put your trust in Alaska Dentistry for Kids. They offer a wide range of general and cosmetic dentistry treatments, from comprehensive exams to root canals and extractions. Call (907) 274-2525 to schedule an appointment with a dentist, or visit their website for more information about their services.