Tooth Fairy Tightens Purse Strings as Tradition Continues
The 2024 Original Tooth Fairy Poll® reveals that while Tooth Fairy visits continue to promote oral hygiene and spark children’s imagination, the average payout for a lost tooth has dropped for the first time in 5 years. Despite the decrease, parents still see the Tooth Fairy as a valuable tool in teaching children about money and healthy habits.
The 2024 Original Tooth Fairy Poll, sponsored by Delta Dental, marks its 26th year, shedding light on the enduring influence of the Tooth Fairy tradition in American homes. The survey reveals that more than one-third of parents (34%) believe the Tooth Fairy helps instill good oral hygiene habits, while nearly one in five (18%) says her generosity is linked to his or her child’s dental health. Additionally, 22% of parents think the Tooth Fairy teaches their children the value of money. This magical visitor is welcomed into 78% of homes, and a quarter of children (27%) even go to bed early in anticipation of her arrival.
However, the poll also indicates that the average payout for a lost tooth has decreased by 6%, dropping from $6.23 to $5.84. This marks the first decline in 5 years, contrasting with the S&P 500’s 20% increase over the same period. Despite this financial tightening, 51% of parents believe the Tooth Fairy visits give their children something to be excited about, and 34% say it helps foster their imagination. Overall, the tradition remains a playful yet impactful way to educate children about oral health and financial responsibility. Click here to read more.
