Survey shows Tooth Fairy is giving more per tooth

The 2010 Tooth Fairy Poll, conducted by Delta Dental of Minnesota, showed that in Minnesota, children are now receiving an average of US$1.96 per tooth, which increased significantly from the previous year’s average of US$1.62 — a 21 per cent increase. Nationally, the average is US$2.13, which is a 13 per cent increase over last year’s average of US$1.88.

“This year’s Tooth Fairy Poll average reflects improvements we’re seeing in other areas of the economy,”' said Ann Johnson, director of community affairs for Delta Dental of Minnesota, in a press release announcing the poll results. “'For example, the Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 23 per cent during the same time period. The Tooth Fairy may be another indicator that the economy is starting to recover.”

Tooth Fairy Poll also revealed other interesting results.

Nearly half of children’s first dental visits occur by age 2, which is a move in the right direction, according to Delta Dental of Minnesota.

“For the past few years, the poll revealed the child’s first dental visit was closer to age 3, so this is a positive shift,” Johnson said. “The American Dental Association recommends that a child be seen by a dentist as soon as his or her first tooth erupts, but at least no later than the child’s first birthday.”

Approximately 90 per cent of parents surveyed state their children receive a dental exam every six months.

“The frequency of dental visits should be determined by the child’s dentist, based on an assessment of the child’s unique oral health needs,” Johnson said. “This process ensures that each child receives the most appropriate dental care.”

The poll continues to show children are consuming fewer sugary drinks and treats. More than half of parents surveyed indicated their children consume an average of one to two sugar drinks or treats per day.

“Encourage children to make healthy choices,” Johnson advised. “Teach them to eat a balanced diet and limit in-between meal snacks of foods containing high levels of sugar. This will help promote good dental health as well as overall health.”

The poll also shows most Minnesota children are working hard to keep their teeth clean. According to the poll, 79 per cent of parents report that their children brush their teeth in the morning, and 90.5 per cent of children brush at night, while only 3.1 per cent brush at noon.

“Children should brush with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste after sugary or starchy meals or snacks to help reduce the incidence of tooth decay,” Johnson said. “Children should also drink fluoridated water after meals to help cleanse the teeth.”

Approximately 56 per cent did not know that tooth decay is contagious, transmissible and a bacterial infection. However, we were pleased to learn that 60.8 per cent of survey-takers changed their toothbrush after the cold or flu.