National Tooth Fairy Tooth Fairy Day

Young child with a missing tooth, holding a colorful pillow and looking excited, bedroom setting with a little tooth fairy door.
National tooth fairy tooth fairy day illustration

Hold onto your pearly whites, because National Tooth Fairy Day is here to bring some whimsy into your life!

When is Tooth Fairy Tooth Fairy Day?

It's national tooth fairy tooth fairy day on the 22nd August.


The Tooth Fairy Phenomenon Explained

Every kid (and let's be honest, many adults) anxiously waits for that magical moment when they lose a tooth and tuck it under their pillow, only to find a surprise waiting for them the next morning. That's right, it's the Tooth Fairy!

The Tooth Fairy has become a beloved figure in folklore, known for her penchant for collecting children's lost teeth and leaving a small token of appreciation in return. But have you ever wondered how this delightful tradition began?

While the origins of the Tooth Fairy are a bit hazy, it is believed to have roots in various cultures around the world. In some ancient societies, including early European and Norse cultures, it was common to bury lost teeth to prevent evil spirits from gaining power over the owner. Other traditions involved tossing the tooth into the sky or burning it to ensure a strong and healthy replacement tooth would grow in its place.

The modern-day Tooth Fairy as we know her emerged in the early 20th century, likely influenced by the popularity of the Fairy Tales and Folklore movement of the time. The figure of the Tooth Fairy has since evolved to become a symbol of childhood innocence and a way to cope with the sometimes bittersweet experience of growing up.

Celebrating National Tooth Fairy Day

On National Tooth Fairy Day, it's time to honor this enchanting character and the joy she brings. Here are a few fun ways to celebrate:

  • 1. Tooth Fairy Crafts: Get creative with your little ones and make some tooth fairy-themed crafts, like a sparkly wand or a special pillow for holding lost teeth.
  • 2. Write a Letter: Encourage your child to write a heartfelt letter to the Tooth Fairy, expressing their appreciation for all the magical visits.
  • 3. Fairy-tale Movie Marathon: Gather your loved ones, snuggle up on the couch, and indulge in a fairy-tale movie marathon. Don't forget the popcorn!
  • 4. Healthy Teeth Habits: National Tooth Fairy Day is an excellent opportunity to reinforce good oral hygiene habits. Brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly to keep your teeth in tip-top shape.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the average child in the United States receives around $3.70 for each lost tooth? That's a lot of tooth fairy treasure!



History behind the term 'Tooth Fairy Tooth Fairy'


1927

Tooth Fairy Enters the Scene

The term 'tooth fairy' first enters popular usage in the United States in the late 1920s. It was used to refer to a mythical creature or figure who visits children when they lose their baby teeth. This figure is known to exchange lost teeth with a small amount of money or a small gift.


1927

The Birth of the Tooth Fairy

The term 'tooth fairy' first appeared in a children's play called 'The Tooth Fairy' by Esther Watkins Arnold. The play tells the story of a mythical fairy who collects children's lost teeth and leaves a small reward, typically a coin, in exchange. This marked the earliest mention of the tooth fairy in popular culture and laid the foundation for the belief in this magical creature.


1927

The Origin of the Tooth Fairy Tradition

The tradition of the tooth fairy began in the United States in 1927. It is believed to have been influenced by various European folklore surrounding the disposal of children's lost teeth. This tradition rapidly gained popularity among children and parents alike.



1927

The Birth of the Tooth Fairy

In 1927, the term 'tooth fairy' was coined and popularized. This mythical character, often depicted as a fairy or a miniature creature, is believed to visit children who have lost their baby teeth. The tooth fairy is known for taking the lost tooth from under the child's pillow and leaving a small monetary reward as a token of appreciation.


1927

Rise of the Tooth Fairy

In 1927, the term 'tooth fairy' made its first appearance in print, popularizing the concept of a magical being that visits children who have lost a tooth. The tooth fairy is said to exchange the lost tooth for a small gift, typically money. This charming tradition quickly gained popularity in Western culture as a way to comfort and reward children during the process of losing their baby teeth.


1949

Tooth Fairy in Popular Literature

In 1949, the term 'tooth fairy' gained more significant cultural prominence with the publication of the play 'The Tooth Fairy' by Esther Watkins Arnold. This play, targeted at children, established the Tooth Fairy as a beloved character in popular lore.



1977

Rise in Popularity

Throughout the 20th century, the tooth fairy gained widespread popularity as a beloved figure in children's folklore. This can be partially attributed to the increased commercialization of childhood and the development of oral health education initiatives. The tradition of children placing their lost teeth under their pillows in anticipation of a visit from the tooth fairy became a cherished ritual in many households.


1950s

Becoming part of folklore

During the 1950s, the tooth fairy began to cement its place in folklore and popular culture. The concept of the tooth fairy became more widespread, with stories and illustrations featuring the delightful character appearing in children's books, magazines, and television shows. The tooth fairy became a beloved mythical figure that excited and comforted generations of children as they awaited her visits.


1949

Rise in Popularity

The tooth fairy concept gained wider recognition and popularity in the late 1940s with the publication of Lee Rogow's book 'The Tooth Fairy Tale.' This delightful children's book popularized the tooth fairy legend and presented it as a beloved figure who takes children's lost teeth and leaves behind a small treasure. The book's success helped cement the tooth fairy's place in modern folklore.



1949

The Term 'Tooth Fairy' Emerges

The term 'tooth fairy' first appeared in the late 1940s and early 1950s. It was used to describe the mythical character who collects children's lost teeth. This term became widely recognized and helped solidify the legend of the tooth fairy in popular culture.


1970s

Tooth Fairy in Literature and Media

During the 1970s, the tooth fairy became a popular subject in children's literature and media. Books, movies, and cartoons featuring the tooth fairy further increased the familiarity and fascination with this magical character. The tooth fairy became a beloved figure in children's imaginations.


1950

Cultural Impact and Traditions

By the 1950s, the tooth fairy had become a well-known and beloved character in Western culture. The concept of the tooth fairy became integrated into family traditions, with parents encouraging children to place their lost teeth under their pillows before going to sleep. In exchange, the tooth fairy would visit during the night to collect the tooth and leave a small gift or monetary reward. This tradition continues to be practiced by many families today.



1984

Tooth Fairy Legends Around the World

As the tooth fairy gained international recognition, different cultures around the world developed their own unique legends and variations of the tooth fairy concept. In places like Spain, Chile, and Mexico, a similar character known as 'El Ratoncito Pérez' visits children to collect their fallen teeth. In Japan, there is a tradition called 'tengu' where children throw their teeth onto the roof, hoping the new tooth will grow straight like the roof slopes.


1972

Tooth Fairy in Modern Pop Culture

The concept of the Tooth Fairy continued to grow in popularity throughout the years, becoming deeply ingrained in modern pop culture. In 1972, Rankin/Bass Productions released a stop-motion animated television special titled 'Here Comes Peter Cottontail,' in which the character of the Tooth Fairy makes a prominent appearance.


1970s

Evolving traditions and practices

In the 1970s, the tooth fairy underwent some changes in her traditions and practices. The amount of money left by the tooth fairy started to increase, reflecting the changing economic landscape. Children began leaving their lost teeth under their pillows, and the tooth fairy would collect the tooth and leave behind a small gift or money. This ritual added an extra element of magic and excitement for young children.



20th Century

Evolution of the Tooth Fairy's Reward

Over time, the tooth fairy's reward has evolved from simple coins to larger monetary offerings. In the 20th century, the average amount left by the tooth fairy significantly increased. This change can be attributed to various factors such as inflation, cultural expectations, and regional differences. Nowadays, children may expect to receive more substantial rewards like dollar bills or even small gifts in exchange for their lost teeth.


1990s

Commercialization and merchandise

By the 1990s, the tooth fairy had become a recognizable and commercially viable character. Companies started producing tooth fairy-themed merchandise, including books, toys, and even tooth fairy pillows specifically designed for children to place their lost teeth. The tooth fairy transcended its original folklore status and became a marketable figure, further solidifying its place in popular culture.


1984

Tooth Fairy in The Guinness Book of World Records

In 1984, the tooth fairy made its mark in The Guinness Book of World Records. The entry acknowledged the world record for the largest collection of teeth held by a single person. This recognition reinforced the widespread fascination and belief in the tooth fairy.



1975

Monetary Rewards

While the tooth fairy was initially associated with leaving coins, the tradition expanded in the 1970s to include monetary rewards of higher value. The increase in the average amount left by the tooth fairy was influenced by inflation and changing cultural norms. Some parents began leaving paper currency, such as dollar bills, instead of coins as a more significant gesture.


1984

Tooth Fairy on the Big Screen

The Tooth Fairy gained even more recognition in 1984 with the release of the horror-comedy film 'The Tooth Fairy.' Directed by Chuck Bowman, this movie centered around the legend of the Tooth Fairy taking revenge on adults who harm children.


Recent Times

Evolution of the Tooth Fairy Tradition

In recent years, the tooth fairy tradition has evolved to include various customs and rituals. Children now commonly place their lost teeth under a pillow or in a specially designed tooth fairy box, expecting a small monetary reward or small gifts in exchange. This tradition continues to bring joy and excitement to children as they eagerly await a visit from the tooth fairy.



Present Day

Digital Trends and the Tooth Fairy

In today's digital age, the tooth fairy tradition has adapted to modern trends. Many parents now use smartphone apps to create a personalized video or photo of the tooth fairy visiting their child's room. The tooth fairy's magical presence is reinforced through these technological experiences, adding an extra layer of excitement and wonder to the age-old tradition of the tooth fairy.


1994

Tooth Fairy Tradition Expands

In the mid-1990s, the Tooth Fairy tradition expanded beyond the United States and gained popularity in other countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. This cultural diffusion further solidified the concept of the Tooth Fairy in global folklore.


Present Day

Continued enchantment and adaptation

Today, the tooth fairy remains a cherished and enchanting figure in many cultures worldwide. The tradition of placing lost teeth under the pillow for the tooth fairy to collect has evolved and adapted to individual and cultural preferences. Some families choose to leave small notes or letters for the tooth fairy, creating an interactive experience for children. While the exact origins of the tooth fairy remain uncertain, its enduring presence in popular culture and its ability to bring excitement and joy to young children is undeniable.



1990s

The Tooth Fairy Industry

In the 1990s, the tooth fairy's popularity led to the emergence of a commercial industry surrounding this mythical character. Toys, books, and various tooth fairy-themed products became widely available, further fueling the enchantment and excitement surrounding the tooth fairy tradition. The tooth fairy had transcended its humble beginnings to become a marketable icon of childhood.


2001

Tooth Fairy's Economic Impact

The Tooth Fairy has not only found a place in popular culture but also in economics. In 2001, Visa USA conducted its first annual 'Tooth Fairy Survey,' which monitors the average amount of money given to children for their lost teeth. This survey highlights the Tooth Fairy's economic impact as well as the evolving customs surrounding this tradition.


Present

Global Phenomenon

Today, the tooth fairy tradition has expanded beyond its Western origins and has become a global phenomenon. Children around the world eagerly await the tooth fairy's visit and participate in the ritual of placing their lost teeth under their pillows. The tooth fairy has become deeply ingrained in popular culture and continues to be a cherished part of childhood for many.



Did you know?

Did you know that the average child in the United States receives around $3.70 for each lost tooth? That's a lot of tooth fairy treasure!

Tagged

awareness fun loved ones

First identified

25th February 2016

Most mentioned on

22nd August 2019

Total mentions

34

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