blog for retired teachers retired teachers blog blog for retired teachers. Classroom Management. Teaching and Learning INRTA Image

Make a Wish! August 22nd is Tooth Fairy Day

July 30, 2021

Who doesn’t remember the thrill of losing a tooth and putting it under their pillow to find that in the morning, like magic, the tooth had vanished and money was in its place? And it was even better when we perhaps got to play Tooth Fairy for our own children. Like Santa Clause and the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy is a beloved symbol of childhood. Unlike many other heroes of folklore, the Tooth Fairy exists in some form across numerous religions, cultures and countries.

Origins of the Tooth Fairy

The Tooth Fairy that we know today has origins dating back centuries. There are legends and traditions dating back centuries about the loss of baby teeth. During the Middle Ages, superstitions began to rise about baby teeth. In England, kids were advised to burn their baby teeth to prevent hardship in the afterlife. Vikings paid kids for their teeth because they believed that children’s teeth brought good luck in battle. Scandinavian warriors frequently wore necklaces adorned with children’s teeth.

The modern incarnation of the Tooth Fairy is only about a hundred years old. It is thought to be inspired by the tale of a tooth-gathering mouse.

While many cultures have an award for a lost baby tooth, the amount varies by country and the family’s economic status. According to a recent poll, American kids receive an average of $3.70 per tooth, with only 3% of kids getting less than a dollar and 8% receiving more than five dollars.

Losing Baby Teeth vs. Adult Teeth

While all parents look forward to playing the role of Tooth Fairy, the loss of a tooth in our adult years is hardly a cause for celebration. It’s important to continue to take care of our oral hygiene and pay regular visits to the dentist for routine checkups. Issues like tooth loss or gum disease are all too common as we age. INRTA and AMBA have Dental Plans that provide access to thousands of dentists nationwide and coverage on everything from routine dentist visits to procedures like root canals, crowns, and more. Sign up or learn more at www.AMBAdentalvision.com or call 866-979-0497.

Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tooth-fairy-inflation-flies-high/

Share:
RECENT POSTS
AMBA’s Eyewear Trends for 2025: Stylish and Practical Options for Older Adults
AMBA’s Eyewear Trends for 2025: Stylish and Practical Options for Older Adults

The days when eyeglasses were just a functional accessory to help improve vision are long gone. Today, eyeglasses are one of


Read More

Be Ready for Unexpected Expenses in Retirement. AMBA Has the Tips You Need.
Be Ready for Unexpected Expenses in Retirement. AMBA Has the Tips You Need.

Whether you’re already retired or it’s coming up on the horizon, planning your retirement is essential. Many people


Read More

AMBA’s 5 Essential Tips for a Healthy Start to the New Year
AMBA’s 5 Essential Tips for a Healthy Start to the New Year

For many of us, the holidays were a time for indulgence and enjoyment. Unfortunately, this can be marked by increased food and


Read More

How AI is Revolutionizing the Battle Against Gum Disease
How AI is Revolutionizing the Battle Against Gum Disease

Do your gums feel tender when they’re touched? Do they easily bleed? Do you have bad breath that won’t seem to go


Read More

©2025 Indiana Retired Teachers Association. All Right Reserved.