Losing a baby tooth is a big moment for a child, and in many homes it comes with a visit from the Tooth Fairy. National Tooth Fairy Day, celebrated on February 28 (and also on August 22 on some calendars), honors this magical figure who swaps teeth under pillows for coins or small gifts. It is also a fun opportunity to talk with children about brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist.
History of National Tooth Fairy Day
Traditions around children's lost teeth are found all over the world. In medieval Europe, a 'tand-fé' or 'tooth fee' was sometimes paid to children when they lost their first tooth, and some people buried baby teeth or burned them for luck.
In many Spanish-speaking countries, a mouse called Ratoncito Pérez collects lost teeth, a tradition popularized by a 19th-century story written for a young Spanish king. In France, the tooth mouse is La Petite Souris. In parts of Asia, children throw upper teeth onto the roof and lower teeth under the floor so new teeth grow straight.
The Tooth Fairy as a fairy is mainly an American creation. She appeared in a short story in the Chicago Tribune in 1908 and became widely known in the mid-20th century through books and popular culture. Today, the amount children receive varies, with surveys showing it has risen over time. Who started National Tooth Fairy Day is not documented.
Why National Tooth Fairy Day Matters
The Tooth Fairy helps make losing a tooth exciting instead of scary for young children.
The day is also a great reminder to build healthy dental habits early, which protect adult teeth for life.
How to Celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day
- Leave a note: write a tiny letter from the Tooth Fairy with glitter.
- Make a tooth pillow: sew or craft a small pouch for lost teeth.
- Learn world traditions: read about Ratoncito Pérez and other tooth customs.
- Brush up on dental care: make a fun brushing chart with stickers.
- Book a check-up: schedule a dentist visit for the family.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, dental offices and pediatric clinics can celebrate with fun displays and free toothbrushes for young patients. Other workplaces may simply share a lighthearted post. In classrooms, students can learn about tooth traditions around the world, graph how many teeth each child has lost, and practice brushing technique with a model. A visit from a dental hygienist is a classic school activity. At home, families can make tooth fairy pillows, read stories about tooth traditions, and set up a brushing routine with a two-minute timer and favorite song.
Fun Facts About National Tooth Fairy Day
- The Tooth Fairy appeared in a Chicago Tribune story in 1908.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, a mouse called Ratoncito Pérez collects teeth.
- Children usually start losing baby teeth around age six.
National Tooth Fairy Day FAQs
When is National Tooth Fairy Day?
It is celebrated on February 28, and some calendars also list August 22.
Where did the Tooth Fairy come from?
The fairy version is largely American, appearing in a 1908 newspaper story; older European tooth customs existed long before.
Do other countries have a Tooth Fairy?
Many have a tooth mouse instead, such as Ratoncito Pérez in Spanish-speaking countries.
When do children lose their first tooth?
Usually around age six, though it varies.