Does the Tooth Fairy Approve of Santa Claus?
Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children should begin regular dental visits at age one. However, many Children fear visiting their dentists to a point where they only see their dentists when necessary.
Dental anxiety in children can lead to poor oral health conditions and long-term dental complications. Parents and dentists worldwide have taken upon them to provide kids with tradition, routine, and education to train them to adapt to proper oral lifestyles.
The Tooth Fairy and Santa
The Christmas fairy and Santa are mythical characters that are meant to bring children enjoyment during special occasions. The main reason why the tooth fairy is introduced to children is to smile whenever they lose a tooth.
The tooth fairy is believed to bring a type of reward after the loss of a tooth. The traditional belief claims that when a baby loses one of their baby teeth, they are supposed to place it under the pillow or beside the bed. Later at night, the tooth fairy will visit and replace the lost tooth with a form of payment.
According to some children’s understanding, the fairy adds the teeth to her collection to use in various ways. Some children believe the fairy grinds the teeth to make the fairy dust that helps her fly, and others believe the fairyland castle is made out of baby teeth.
Why Dentists Use the Tooth Fairy Tale
Most children start to lose their baby teeth at the age of 5-7 years. By this time, a child has a full set of 32 teeth. During this period is when the fairy tooth tale applies, it is okay to make your own story and have fun with the story for your child to believe.
Even dentists use their creativity in various situations and use rewards from the tooth fairy to teach children about oral health benefits; this will reduce the dental anxiety of your kids during their dental checkups.
How to Care for Children’s Teeth
Oral health is fundamental. Even before a baby loses his first tooth, his/her gums should be kept clean. After your baby’s teeth start erupting, oral hygiene practices are highly recommended. Some essential tips on caring for your baby’s teeth include:
- Brush teeth and gums regularly twice a day.
- Use the appropriate toothbrush with soft bristles using fluoride toothpaste.
- Visit a pediatric dentist once your child’s teeth start to grow for routine checkups and cleaning.
- Practice healthy lifestyle behaviors. Give your child a nutritional diet and avoid starchy and sugary foods that could lead to tooth decay. It is better to consider dining in sugar-free child-friendly cafes when you go out for lunch or dinner.
Losing a tooth is a right passage for every child; it should be an exciting experience for both you and your child. Therefore, tooth fairy traditions do an excellent job when comforting and soothing children in the process of tooth loss. Parents can also use the tooth fairy story to lure good behavior and oral hygiene practices in their children.