The tooth fairy is a figure who is well known in popular mythology. This tiny, friendly fairy takes teeth and leaves money or gifts behind and is a well-loved character. Because this myth is so widespread, shared by kids, parents, and dentists around the world, you might be surprised to know that the tooth fairy is a 19th-century invention—but she does have roots in ancient mythology.

Older Tooth Loss Traditions

Losing baby teeth and getting adult ones is part of the process of growing up, and many cultures have celebrated it. Vikings carried their children's teeth for good luck in battle, while other European cultures buried the teeth in the hope of a better afterlife. Later, European children traditionally received gifts for their sixth lost tooth—one possible root of the tooth fairy tradition. In many cultures, including Russia, Spain, and several Asian countries, it was customary to leave your tooth out for a tiny creature to take; though in these cases, it was usually a mouse.

American Heritage

The modern form of the myth, with a tiny fairy taking the teeth, comes from 19th century America. The earliest print reference to the tooth fairy appeared in an article in 1908, which recommended telling children the story to help them feel better about losing teeth. The first depiction in fiction was in The Tooth Fairy: Three-Act Playlet for Children by Esther Watkins Arnold, published in 1927. Later, the myth grew even more widespread as Disney® popularized the image of good fairies with movies like Pinocchio® in 1940 and Peter Pan® in 1953.

Today

Now you can find endless books and movies about the tooth fairy, including on store shelves, at the dentist’s office, and online. This myth turns a process that could be uncomfortable and upsetting into something exciting for kids. It would be hard to find a child in America who doesn't know this story—and who doesn't put lost teeth under their pillow at night hoping to find a gift there in the morning.

If you're looking for a dentist for your child, contact Tkatch Dentistry in High Point, NC. Serving the Piedmont Triad region, they're a small Guilford County-based practice with a focus on community service and connection. They're also pleased to offer convenient and affordable solutions like home teeth whitening. Call (336) 889-9916 for an appointment, or visit their website to learn more.