What the Tooth Fairy Does with Teeth: Debunking Fairytale Myths

When your child loses a tooth, the most common story you're asked to tell them is that the tooth fairy will take the tooth and leave behind a gift. But have you ever wondered what the tooth fairy does with those teeth? Let's explore some different possibilities and how to approach this topic with your kids.

The Tooth Fairy and Your Child's Teeth

The traditional story of the tooth fairy is that she takes the tooth and leaves a gift. However, there are several variations and what may be said to children about what happens to their teeth. Some common practices include:

The tooth fairy turns the tooth into a dollar bill. The tooth is stored for future dental needs, like dentures. The tooth is kept as a memory of their childhood. Permanent teeth will replace the one they lost.

Choosing which version to tell your child is a personal decision. You can base it on your beliefs and values. The important thing is that you're honest yet comforting, as you don't want to dampen their excitement.

Myths and Realities

It's essential to distinguish between fairytale myths and realistic practices. Many children nowadays already understand the difference between fairytales and reality. One parent, for example, mentioned that their five-year-old daughter already knows fairies, genies, and other fictional beings do not exist. They continue to tell her about the tooth fairy as part of her fantasy world. This approach can make the tooth fairy belief more magical and less confusing.

Parents' Experiences

Here are a few examples of how parents explain what the tooth fairy does with the teeth:

One parent said, "I told my kids she needs them to make dentures for elderly people."

Another suggested, "The tooth fairy is a lesson about money and barter. So tell her she bartered her tooth and it's gone."

One parent thought of, "Maybe tell them the TF takes the tooth and turns it into a dollar bill. It used to be a quarter."

Some parents simply said, "She keeps her tooth as a memory of her childhood."

Conclusion

The key is to choose the explanation that seems most comforting to your child. Remember, the tooth fairy is a beloved tradition that helps children cope with the loss of their baby teeth. Whether you go with the dollar bill, memory, or other variation, it's a time to celebrate their growing up and the passage of time. You may also find that your child's belief in the tooth fairy is short-lived, especially if they start receiving actual money under the pillow. This shift can be a natural part of growing older and becoming more aware of reality.

To wrap up, there's no one "right" answer to what the tooth fairy does with the teeth. Here are the key takeaways:

Choose a variation of the tooth fairy story that resonates with you and your child. Be honest yet comforting. Emphasize the magical aspect of the tooth fairy. Prepare for the shift in belief as your child grows older.

By approaching the tooth fairy tradition thoughtfully, you can create a memorable and meaningful experience for your child as they transition to another chapter in their life.