Losing a baby tooth is one of childhood’s most exciting milestones. For many kids, that tiny tooth under the pillow signals a visit from the Tooth Fairy—and perhaps a little treat in exchange. But while the Tooth Fairy is well known across Canada and the U.S., this tradition takes many different forms around the world.
From magical mice to rooftop tooth-tossing, cultures across the globe celebrate lost baby teeth in fun, fascinating ways. These traditions not only bring joy and wonder to children, but also create opportunities to talk about growing up and caring for new adult teeth.
Let’s take a tour of Tooth Fairy traditions around the world—and explore how they reflect each culture’s values and beliefs, while reminding us all of the importance of a healthy smile.
North America: A Familiar Fairy With a Sparkle
In Canada and the U.S., most kids grow up believing in the Tooth Fairy—a tiny, winged figure who comes at night to exchange a lost tooth for a coin, a small gift, or even a handwritten note. Children typically place their tooth under their pillow and wake up to a fun surprise the next morning.
This modern fairy is a relatively recent invention. The tradition became popular in the early 1900s, blending elements from folklore, fairytales, and European customs. Today, parents use the Tooth Fairy to turn a potentially nerve-wracking moment into one of excitement and celebration.
Many families even personalize the experience with glittery “fairy dust,” mini letters, or special Tooth Fairy boxes, adding an extra layer of magic to the process.
Spain & Latin America: Ratoncito Pérez, the Tooth Mouse
Across Spain and much of Latin America, children look forward to a visit from Ratoncito Pérez—a small, friendly mouse who takes the place of the fairy. Like the Tooth Fairy, he visits while children sleep and exchanges a lost tooth for a reward.
This tradition is especially strong in Spain, where Ratoncito Pérez has become a cultural icon. He was even featured in a children’s story written in the 1800s for a young Spanish king. In some places, kids leave their teeth in a glass of water rather than under their pillow.
The idea of a mouse collecting teeth has taken hold in many parts of the world, including France and Italy, where versions of the “tooth mouse” are also common.
France: La Petite Souris (The Little Mouse)
In French-speaking regions, it’s La Petite Souris—“the little mouse”—who handles tooth collection duties. The custom is nearly identical to the Spanish version: children place their tooth under their pillow and La Petite Souris takes it, leaving behind a coin.
This tradition is often introduced with charming storybooks or gentle songs and helps children view the loss of baby teeth as a fun, expected part of growing up.
Japan: Toss It—Not Under the Pillow
Japan takes a completely different approach. Instead of placing teeth under a pillow, children throw their teeth! Upper teeth are thrown straight down, and lower teeth are tossed up onto the roof.
Why? The idea is symbolic. By throwing teeth in the opposite direction of the new teeth growing in, it’s believed that the adult teeth will come in straight and strong.
Some children also shout out a wish for healthy teeth during the process. It’s a fun, lighthearted way to turn tooth loss into a moment of action and hope.
Middle East: Teeth to the Sky
In countries like Egypt, Jordan, and Iraq, children often toss their teeth toward the sky—sometimes accompanied by a little chant or prayer. In some cases, the tooth is offered to the sun or to Allah, with a request for a better tooth to grow in its place.
This centuries-old tradition connects the natural cycle of growth with spirituality, blending playfulness with cultural respect.
South Korea: A Gift for the Birds
South Korean children also practice tooth tossing, but with a twist. They throw their teeth onto the roof, hoping a magpie will come and take it. Magpies are seen as lucky birds in Korean folklore, so the belief is that if a magpie finds the tooth, the child will receive a new, healthy one.
Kids often make a wish for a beautiful smile during the toss, turning the act into a cheerful celebration of growing up.
India: Burying, Hiding, or Tossing
India is rich in tooth traditions, and they vary widely depending on the region and religion. In some parts of the country, children bury their lost teeth near trees, believing that this will help strong adult teeth grow in. In other places, children throw their teeth on the roof, in line with the traditions seen in East Asia.
Parents and grandparents often play a big role in guiding children through the tradition, sharing family-specific rituals and stories that create lasting memories.
Why These Traditions Matter
No matter where you are in the world, these traditions serve an important purpose: they help children understand and celebrate the changes happening in their bodies. Losing baby teeth can feel strange, uncomfortable, or even a little scary. These cultural stories and rituals help ease those worries, turning fear into fun.
They also provide families with a perfect opportunity to talk about oral health—and the role that strong adult teeth will play in a child’s future.
The Role of Pediatric Dentistry in Your Child’s Journey
While tossing teeth or waiting for magical mice may be fun, the real magic happens in daily routines and regular dental care. Once your child starts losing baby teeth, it’s essential to partner with a pediatric dentist who can track tooth development, ensure permanent teeth are coming in properly, and help prevent future issues.
At Glow Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in caring for children’s smiles from their very first visit through every big milestone. Whether it’s the first wiggly tooth or getting a child used to dental cleanings, our team is here to provide expert care in a supportive, kid-friendly environment.
We believe that good habits, positive experiences, and gentle guidance lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles. And yes—we love hearing all about your family’s version of the Tooth Fairy too!
If you’re searching for a kids dentist who understands how to make dental care feel safe, fun, and personalized, Glow Pediatric Dentistry is here for you. Our highly trained team combines the best of pediatric dentistry with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that puts both parents and kids at ease.
