Who is the Tooth Fairy

Who is she and how did she come to be?

Most of us can remember the anxiety, or thrill, of losing our baby teeth. That moment when you realized you were no longer a toddler and, even better, you’d be visited by the Tooth Fairy.

Yes, that’s right, if your teeth were falling out it was a good thing. That might sound crazy, but to a six-year old still wearing princess dresses, it’s a call for celebration! Here’s how this magical tradition got started.

The Tooth Fairy is a modern creation, but a byproduct of ancient customs, folklores and fairy-tales. Although not proven, it is commonly believed the “Fairy Mouse” first appeared in a French tale called La Bonne Petite Souris, or The Good Little Mouse. The story centers on a fairy with a mission to teach a bad king a lesson. In the tale, the fairy changes herself into a mouse and hides under the king’s pillow. While the tyrant king is slept, the Fairy Mouse stole all his teeth. A charming tale, perhaps, for the middle ages, but our modern times required a more delicate assurance.

Enter the Modern Age 

Fairy Mouse was too scary for children, and a new figure would take over in the 20th century. The Tooth Fairy would emerge in the early 1900’s. This time, she was a good fairy who rewarded instead of punished.

This tooth-collecting fairy grew in popularity in America and became a widespread custom by the 1950s. She helped bring attention to the importance of children’s dental hygiene, and has appeared in several plays, books, cartoons, and even on pillows, blankets, and other merchandise. Since then, many parents have been cheerfully introducing the Tooth Fairy into their children.

Whether your Tooth Fairy is a pixie, a child with wings, a flying ballerina, or a dental hygienist, this magical being has the power to bring enchantment to your little one’s life. We’d like to help teach them how to care for their teeth too. Call to set up your child’s exam or contact us to schedule an appointment.