Losing baby teeth is a special part of growing up. In many places, children look forward to a visit from the Tooth Fairy, who takes their tooth and leaves a small gift in return. But did you know that not every country has a tooth fairy? The tooth fairy is quite different from one country to another and everyone has a different belief about it. Let’s find out seven interesting tooth fairy traditions around the world that people practice.
1. The Tooth Mouse
In France and Spain, the tooth fairy is replaced by a little mouse! Known as La Petite Souris in France, in Spain, and in most other Latin American countries, it is called El Ratoncito Pérez. The little mouse sneaks into the child’s room while he or she is asleep. Here the child leaves the tooth under his or her pillow, and in the morning, they find that the mouse took the tooth, and there was a small present or money in its place.
Sometimes, the child may even leave the tooth in a glass of water next to their bed. That tradition keeps children excited about losing teeth, making it something to look forward to experiencing. Further, it teaches them the importance of taking care of their teeth.
2. Throwing Teeth onto the Roof
In some countries, when a child loses a baby tooth, they won’t put it under the pillow. Rather, the tooth is to be thrown onto the roof. This custom followed in India, Japan, Korea, China, and Vietnam. In this, the lower jaw teeth are thrown onto the roof, while the teeth from the upper jaw are to be buried or put on the floor. This is done to ensure that the new teeth grow straight and healthy.
3. Leaving Teeth by Animal Dwellings
Children in Afghanistan do not expect a tooth fairy or even a mouse to pull out their teeth. Instead, they take matters into their own hands by leaving their lost teeth near an animal burrow such as a mousehole or the dwelling of other small creatures. The belief is that giving their tooth to an animal who has powerful teeth helps to grow their teeth strong and healthy.
In some countries, part of the tooth traditions around the world involves children leaving their lost teeth for squirrels or other animals with strong teeth instead of the Tooth Fairy. It’s a fun and hopeful way for kids to wish for strong, healthy adult teeth as they grow up.
4. Jewellery Making from Teeth
In South American families, take the child’s lost tooth, coat it in gold or silver, and make a small piece of jewellery that can be worn. It is one way in which parents and children can celebrate when a child loses their first tooth.
The teeth jewellery serves as a reminder of this stage of their lives. For some parents, these tooth-based ornaments are a perfect way of keeping the memories of the child’s growth.
5. Throwing Teeth at the Sun
In other regions of the Middle East, such as Egypt, Jordan, and Iraq, children take a more energetic approach when losing their tooth. They throw teeth in the air with a direct aim at the sun. This has been practiced for nearly 1000 years. Families believe that by throwing their teeth toward the sun, they request receiving a new tooth that grows big and strong.
6. Place the Tooth in a Shoe
In countries like South Africa and Eswatini, children hide their teeth in a shoe or slipper before bed. When they wake up, they find that the tooth mouse has taken the tooth and left a small gift in its place.
The reward could be sweets or a tiny toy. This tradition makes losing teeth a fun and memorable event among kids.
7. Feeding Teeth to Animals
In some Central Asian countries, children give their lost teeth to pets such as dogs. They wrap the tooth in a small piece of meat or another treat and give it to the pet. By doing this, the child will grow strong, healthy teeth like the animal’s.
While this tradition might seem unusual to some, it’s a meaningful part of the culture in these areas. It’s a connection between humans and animals, and hope that children will grow up with healthy teeth.
Contact Dental Care Centre Today!
Dental Care Centre offers quality care to children. Our professional kids dentist in Grande Prairie offers your child as much comfort as possible while getting check-ups or treatments. Utilizing the latest technology and equipment, we treat our patients in a comfortable environment. With our skilled dental care, your child can have a beautiful and healthy smile. Arrange your dental appointment today to ensure your child’s teeth remain healthy and strong!