Tooth Fairy Day is August 22 and is a delightful occasion that arrives just in time for your patients’ mid-year hygiene appointments. While traditionally a celebration for children, this special day offers an excellent opportunity to engage patients of all ages with fun, informative activities about dental and oral health.
The Origin of the Tooth Fairy:
The concept of the Tooth Fairy has roots dating back to the 13th century, when a Norse tradition called “tand fe,” or “tooth fee,” was practiced. Parents would give their children a small payment for their first lost tooth, believing it brought good luck. The modern version of the Tooth Fairy began to take shape in 1908, when an article in the Chicago Tribune suggested that parents tell their children about a fairy who leaves five cents per lost tooth to ease their fears about losing them. While this might not have completely erased the discomfort of losing a tooth, the idea of earning money made the experience more exciting than frightening. Today, the Tooth Fairy is a beloved figure in the United States and other Western countries, though many cultures around the world have their own unique and fun traditions surrounding the loss of baby teeth.
2024 Original Tooth Fairy Poll® Results
New findings from Delta Dental’s 2024 Original Tooth Fairy Poll® reveal a fascinating trend: the average value of a single lost tooth has declined by 6% from $6.23 to $5.84, marking the first year-over-year decline in five years. While the loss of a first tooth typically commands a premium, even this milestone saw a slight decrease, from $7.29 to $7.09.
According to Delta Dental’s Tooth Fairy Index poll, the average amount of money the Tooth Fairy leaves for a lost tooth has varied over the years:
- 1998: $1.30
- 2023: $6.23, a 16% increase from 2022 and a record high
- 2024: $5.84, a 6% decrease from 2023 and the first decline in five years
Other factors that can influence Tooth Fairy payouts include the child’s age, the significance of the first lost tooth, and the Tooth Fairy’s generosity.
Delta Dental resource: https://www.deltadental.com/us/en/tooth-fairy/press release.html#:~:text=OAK%20BROOK%2C%20Ill.,pillow%20for%20a%20single%20tooth
Creating a Fun Office Environment
Celebrate Tooth Fairy Day by creating a fun, engaging office environment. Consider these activities:
- Tooth Fairy-Themed Coloring Pages: Offer coloring pages for children to enjoy in the patient reception lobby .
- Pin-the-Tooth on the Fairy Board: Create a playful game for all ages and perhaps include office services giveaway prizes.
- Educational Materials: Share fun facts about the Tooth Fairy and the importance of dental health and keeping your permanent teeth healthy for life!
Encourage your patients, young and old, to prioritize their dental health with these engaging activity ideas. For more resources, visit [Delta Dental’s Tooth Fairy Resources] https://www.deltadental.com/us/en/tooth-fairy/tooth-fairy-resources.html.
Engage With Your Patients on Social Media
Share the latest Tooth Fairy payout averages and fun facts on your social media pages. Use these hashtags to make it a positive patient engagement experience:
- #Smile
- #DentalCare
- #DentalWonders
Leverage the Day for Patient Outreach for Overdue Hygiene Recare
Take advantage of this opportunity to reach out to patients who are overdue for their hygiene appointments. Send a text to those who haven’t scheduled their next visit and include a friendly reminder to call the office to book their appointment. Here are a few example texts you might consider:
- 🧚♀️ Happy Tooth Fairy Day from all of us at [Practice Name]! We appreciate your continued trust and can’t wait to see you soon. If you haven’t booked your next oral health visit yet, we’re ready to help you find a convenient time that works for you!
📅 Call or text us at [Your Office Number] to book your visit.
- Hi [Patient Name], 🌟 National Tooth Fairy Day is August 22nd! We noticed you haven’t scheduled your next oral health exam and cleaning yet. Give us a call soon to keep your smile healthy and bright! 🦷✨
- 🧚♀️ Happy Tooth Fairy Day! 🧚♂️
It’s time to make your smile sparkle! ✨ Your dental check-up is overdue, and even the Tooth Fairy wants you to keep those pearly whites healthy. Schedule your appointment today and keep your smile magical! 📅 Call or text us at [Your Office Number] to book your visit.
Let’s make Tooth Fairy Day a magical and educational experience for dental patients of all ages!
(Remember to view the links to the provided resources for more information and engagement).
Happy Tooth Fairy Day! 🦷🧚🏼♂
