The latest findings are in, and the Tooth Fairy has been watching her spending more closely after last year’s record highs.

New findings from Delta Dental of Arizona’s Original Tooth Fairy Poll® revealed the national average value of a single lost tooth during the past year declined by 6% from $6.23 to $5.84. This represents the first year-over-year decline in Tooth Fairy giving in five years. However, the new going rate for a lost tooth is more in line with Arizona’s 2023 average of $5.31, showing that the Tooth Fairy’s thriftiness is mimicking trends from the broader U.S. population.

“Delta Dental has tracked U.S. Tooth Fairy giving trends for 26 years as a timely way to spotlight the importance of children’s oral health,” said Tiffany Di Giacinto, senior director of brand and product at Delta Dental of Arizona. “Despite the more economical reward, Tooth Fairy giving is a fun conversation starter to encourage kids to practice good oral hygiene habits at an early age.”

The Tooth Fairy is a useful tool for parents and caregivers to get kids excited about the importance of oral health and introduce them to all the ways that a healthy mouth supports a healthy body. Families may want to reinforce great brushing and flossing routines via a note from the Tooth Fairy or opt for alternative Tooth Fairy gifts like fun toothbrushes, unique flavored floss or sugar free gum.

Additional Original Tooth Fairy Poll® findings:

The national average value of a first tooth is $7.09, which is down 20 cents from 2023.

About half of parents (51%) feel the Tooth Fairy visiting their home gives their children something to be excited about and an opportunity to celebrate something fun.

More than 1 in 3 parents (34%) say the Tooth Fairy’s visits support a positive way to instill good oral health habits.

Nearly 1 in 4 parents (33%) say the Tooth Fairy helps teach their children about the value of money.

For tips and articles to help parents and caregivers take care of their family’s oral health, vision health and overall health, visit the Delta Dental of Arizona Blog at http://www.deltadentalazblog.com.

About Delta Dental of Arizona
Delta Dental of Arizona (Delta Dental) is a health and wellness company providing affordable dental and vision benefits to individuals, families and businesses throughout the state. Building on its reputation as the state’s largest and most experienced dental insurance provider, Delta Dental’s mission is to create a path to better health and wellness. Since 2010, Delta Dental of Arizona, through its Foundation, has given over $18 million to support oral health education, disease prevention and food assistance programs for underserved and uninsured communities across the state. For more information about Delta Dental of Arizona, visit http://www.deltadentalaz.com.