For a quarter-century, this poll has been a beacon of the Tooth Fairy's presence in American homes, revealing that a whopping 81% of households welcome this magical visitor. The enchantment of the Tooth Fairy isn't just for kids; it extends to parents too, with 36% recognizing the Fairy's role in fostering good oral health habits, while 27% of eager children hit the hay early in anticipation of her arrival.
Gabriella Ferroni, Senior Director of Strategic Communications at Delta Dental Plans Association, shares, "The Tooth Fairy is a beloved visitor into homes across the country and helps foster proper oral hygiene habits at an early age, which in turn supports overall health. To encourage positive dental care, parents can remind their children the Tooth Fairy prefers the cleanest, healthiest teeth. We look forward to seeing how traditions evolve over the next 25 years."
Here are the highlights from this year's poll:
- Tooth Fairy giving reaches a record high: The average value of a lost tooth surged to $6.23, marking a 16% increase from the previous year and a 379% jump since the inception of the poll. This trajectory suggests that by 2048, the Tooth Fairy might leave a generous $30 under the pillow for a single tooth!
- Tooth Fairy pays a premium for the first tooth: The average value for the first tooth stands at $7.29, over a dollar more than subsequent teeth. A third of parents acknowledge that the Tooth Fairy tends to be more generous with the first tooth.
- The worth of a lost tooth and the economy: Interestingly, while the Tooth Fairy's generosity soared, the S&P 500 experienced an 11% decline during the same period, showcasing a unique economic trend.
Regional insights on the average value of a lost tooth:
- South ($6.59): Leads with the highest monetary gift, showing a 14% increase.
- West ($6.25): Despite a 53% surge, it barely surpasses the national average.
- Northeast ($6.14): Dropped below the national average this year.
- Midwest ($5.63): Trails the national average but saw a significant 32% increase.
Source: Delta Dental
Photo: Getty