In America, our version of the tooth fairy typically wears a dress, has wings, and collects teeth left under children’s pillows at night. However, reports and stories from around the globe show that she operates a little differently abroad. Everyone loses baby teeth, and other countries have their own fun rituals to commemorate the occasion and promote good dental health for children. Read on to learn about how other cultures celebrate these little steps on the road of life.
The Tooth Mouse
Since the tooth fairy can change her size so she can fit under windows, it’s safe to assume that she can change her shape as well. That’s why in France and Spanish-speaking countries, a mouse comes to collect children’s teeth and leaves a small gift in return. Spanish-speaking children call this little critter Ratocinto Perez, Raton Perez, Perez Mouse, and El Raton de Los Dientes (roughly translated as “the Tooth Mouse”).
This friendly rodent usually collects the tooth from under the child’s pillow, but in Argentina, a child will leave a lost tooth in a glass of water before going to bed. The mouse will drink the water and take the tooth, leaving a small gift in thanks. This mouse operates in South Africa as well, where children place a lost tooth in a slipper so he can come to collect it in exchange for a small present.
Throwing Teeth Around
There are billions of children in the world, so some countries are outside of the tooth fairy’s jurisdiction. Instead, these cultures have special rituals to bring healthy teeth and good fortune.
In Asian countries like China, India, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, children toss their lost top teeth onto their roofs and bury the bottom teeth in the ground. These practices help ensure that their adult teeth come in healthy and strong. In some Middle Eastern countries like Egypt, Iraq, and Jordan, children will throw their lost teeth toward the sun in hopes that this celestial body will send them better adult teeth to replace them.
Recent years have seen the tooth fairy become active in promoting good oral hygiene by leaving dental supplies under the pillow or better gifts for cleaner teeth. Losing teeth can be stressful, so the whole point is to make growing up fun and exciting for children. Don’t be afraid to get creative as you welcome your child to a new stage in life.
About the Practice
Healthy Kids Dentistry in Silver Spring, MD, is dedicated to keeping young smiles healthy so they can stay that way for life. Led by Drs. José Garcia and Thomas Kim, the skilled staff provides a fun environment to get children engaged with their dental care. Services include general, restorative, and emergency dentistry for children. To learn about how you can make sure your child leaves the cleanest teeth possible for the tooth fairy, contact the office online or dial (301) 871-8880.