From Santa Claus to the Easter Bunny, there are numerous mythological creatures that add a little extra magic to your little one’s childhood. One of the most popular ones? The tooth fairy! In the U.S., children are taught to place their teeth underneath their pillow in hopes of receiving a small treat, like money or a toy. If your child is in the process of growing into their new smile, now is a great time to share with them some tooth fairy stories from around the world. Here are four to get the conversation started.
#1. The Tooth Mouse
In France and French-speaking countries, children are told their tooth will be received by a mouse! Referred to as “La Petite Souris,” this creature is believed to sneak into their room at night to gather their lost teeth. Interestingly enough, the tooth mouse is also prevalent in Spain, but it’s called the “Ratóncito Pérez.”
#2. The Tooth Toss
In countries like China and Egypt, children don’t wait for a visit from a mythological creature. Instead, they take matters into their own hands by tossing their teeth! In China, children toss their lower teeth on the roof and bury their upper ones in the ground, a practice believed to help their teeth grow in straight. On the other hand, children in Egypt toss their teeth toward the sun in hopes the star in return will send them stronger teeth.
#3. The Tooth Troll
Although a bit scarier, this tooth fairy story is centered around something important: good oral hygiene. In Finland, children are told a tooth troll, Hammaspeikko, will drill holes in their teeth if they eat too much candy. Fortunately, the kids can keep the creature away by consistently brushing their teeth.
#4. The Tooth Wish
Instead of keeping their teeth in a box, Turkish parents bury their child’s teeth in a special place. For example, if they want their child to be a doctor, they will place their lost tooth near a hospital. If they want their child to grow up to be the President, then they will bury their tooth near the White House.
Losing their teeth can be a somewhat scary experience for children. Sharing some tooth fairy myths from around the world can normalize the process while adding some entertainment value. So, don’t hesitate to share stories like these with your children when they begin losing teeth!
About the Practice
At Simply Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we are proud to have a hand-selected team of skilled doctors in-house, including a pediatric dentist and orthodontist! Together, they can provide growing smiles with comprehensive, personalized, compassionate dentistry at each and every appointment. If you have any questions about the development of your child’s teeth or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at 603-635-1166.