A big milestone for kids is losing their baby teeth. For many, it marks the start of visits from the tooth fairy. This magical character helps make something scary into a fun experience as growing smiles develop. Your family might have their own traditions, but they may differ from what children do in other countries. Here are a few customs from around the world that you might consider trying.
Classic Tooth Fairy Experience
For many little ones, like those in Canada and the U.S., a lost baby tooth is placed under their pillow while they sleep. The tooth fairy will come by and exchange it for money or a small gift. While it may be a minor gesture, it helps make this moment fun and rewarding.
Ratoncito Pérez
In Spain and other Hispanic cultures, it’s not a fairy that comes to visit but Ratoncito Pérez. He’s a little mouse who collects teeth from under a kid’s pillow. He also replaces it with a gift, but it’s not always money. Children in Argentina also believe in him, but they place their lost baby teeth in a glass of water, so he can have a drink while he’s making his runs.
La Bonne Petite Souris
Kids in France and other European countries also have a mouse of their own they leave their teeth to. La Bonne Petite Souris will swap it out for a gift, and that gesture is seen as a sign of good luck.
Early Job Hunting
It’s believed in Turkey and some countries that baby teeth influence what a child’s future career will be. To ensure little ones get set up for success, lost teeth are buried around workplaces or academic buildings, like a doctor’s office or university. That way, the kid grows up to be in this profession or does well in school.
Tooth Toss
Several Asian cultures don’t believe in putting baby teeth under pillows. They instead throw them to encourage their adult teeth to come in. For instance, if a tooth from the lower jaw is lost, then they throw it on their roof. A tooth from the upper jaw will get thrown to the floor or buried. It’s believed they are connected, so the new structure will be pulled to the old one.
In the end, all these traditions have the same goal. They get kids excited about their growing smile. By celebrating this milestone, little ones can feel their best while their grin takes shape.
About the Practice
Our team is here at Coral Kids Dentistry & Braces to help tiny teeth and gums stay their best. Led by compassionate pediatric dentists, we are proud to help your child get the strong oral health they deserve with a wide range of treatments. We spot problems early and give effective solutions so there’s nothing to worry about later. If your child is due for their next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our St. Catharines or Hamilton office.