According to legend, the Tooth Fairy leaves money for children after losing a well-tended tooth. While this may be a good motivator for some kids, others may enjoy finding a different surprise under their pillows or on their nightstand. Below are a few non-monetary alternatives the Tooth Fairy leaves for children who routinely receive good marks from the dentist.

3 Non-Monetary Rewards for Healthy Teeth

1. Stickers & Toothbrushing Chart

For a child’s first tooth loss, give them a sticker chart to fill out every time their brush and floss. Include a variety of stickers with their favorite colors, shapes, animals, and characters to help them stay engaged in their oral care routine. When they fill up the chart, offer them another small reward, such as an extra story before bed.

2. Smile-Friendly Snack

If your child has a favorite treat, indulge them a little bit—just don’t give them anything the Tooth Fairy wouldn’t approve of. Because it is a reward for healthy teeth, stay away from sugary, sticky snacks such as candy, taffy, and soda. Instead, buy some of their favorite fruit or cheese as both are low in artificial sweeteners and boost oral health. Watermelon, pineapple, and strawberries are especially smile-friendly summer treats. Similarly, smoothies or homemade popsicles without added sugar can be a fun project to undertake together, and you’ll end with a treat to enjoy while you celebrate this milestone with your child.

3. Coloring Book

For the creative types, a coloring book and a fresh set of crayons are full of opportunities. If possible, choose a dental-themed book that depicts your child’s favorite characters interacting with dentists to remind your kids how important oral health is. Find a set of crayons with a few colors not found in their current collection to upgrade their delight.

If your child has recently lost a tooth, visit the dentist to ensure their permanent teeth are growing in correctly. Main Street Dental in La Crosse, WI, offers dentistry services for the whole family, so you can schedule everyone’s appointments at the same time. Whether you are seeking someone to handle your biannual cleanings or want professional whitening, their team will deliver the results you want. They even offer same-day crowns to help patients get back to their usual lives as quickly as possible. To learn more about their services, visit their website, and call (608) 784-4063 to schedule a dentist appointment.