The Tooth Fairy pays a visit to children who lose a tooth and leave it under their pillow at night. To recognize the tradition, February 28 is National Tooth Fairy Day, an occasion when you can discuss dental care with your child and help them celebrate with some fun and informative activities.

What Is the History of the Tooth Fairy?

The Tooth Fairy has equivalents in many cultures, having parents of different countries commemorate the loss of baby teeth as a momentous occasion. In America, the Tooth Fairy was inspired by a playlet written in 1927 by Esther Watkins Arnold. In this story, a deity mouse collects baby teeth placed under pillows to grant wishes to the owners. As the Tooth Fairy gained more popularity, Americans began observing this tradition by leaving coins under their children’s pillows, with the amount varying based on the order the teeth were lost and how large they were.  

How Can You Celebrate with Your Kids?

Even if your kid hasn’t lost a tooth yet, there are numerous ways to celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day. To get their creativity flowing, have your child draw a picture of what they think the Tooth Fairy looks like. 

If they've lost teeth, help them make a Tooth Fairy pillow with felt, stuffing, and thread. You can also glue a felt tooth to the front of a premade pillow, leaving a small opening to place the tooth in overnight. 

To incorporate dental care into the celebration, talk to your kid about brushing and flossing regularly and making healthy food choices. Pop in a movie and snack on tooth-friendly treats, like carrots, apple slices, or celery and dips.

If you’re looking for a dentist to care for your child's baby and adult teeth, head to Discovery Dental in Eagle River, AK. These professionals offer a range of dental care services to keep your child's pearly whites shining, from teeth cleaning to restorative treatments and sedation options. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (907) 622-5437.