How a simple lost tooth can become a powerful practice-building moment
Every once in a while, a patient says something that stays with you.
Recently, a little one in my practice told me with absolute delight that the Tooth Fairy had left $35 under their pillow. I raised an eyebrow at the dad, who laughed and said:
“Two sets of grandparents!”
That moment was equal parts sweet, surprising, and telling — because families today are creating Tooth Fairy traditions in all kinds of ways. Some leave $1, others leave $20. Some leave glitter trails, notes, or tiny gifts. Some… forget entirely and need an “oops-the-fairy-was-delayed” explanation the next morning.
And that’s exactly why the Tooth Fairy is more than just a cute childhood milestone.
It’s an opportunity.
Why the Tooth Fairy is a practice asset, not just a childhood tradition
When a child loses a tooth, three things are happening at once:
âś… The child is proud and excited
✅ The parents are trying to “do it right” (whatever that means!)
âś… The dentist has a perfect opening to support the experience and strengthen the relationship
When we, as pediatric dentists, offer a helpful resource — especially one that solves a parent concern before they ask — we aren’t just educating. We’re creating connection, loyalty, and trust.
And that’s why I created a Parent Tooth Fairy Guide you can use in your own practice.
What the downloadable guide includes
It’s written for parents, not dentists — simple, friendly, and practical. Inside you’ll find:
✨ Fun ideas for Tooth Fairy visits with or without money
✨ What to say when the “fairy forgets” (yes, it happens!)
✨ A gentle way to explain payouts that vary
✨ Creative non-cash surprise ideas (glow sticks, notes, seed packets, etc.)
✨ A quick section on what’s normal vs. when to call the dentist
✨ Space for your practice logo and info at the bottom
It’s the kind of handout parents actually keep — not recycle.
7 smart ways to use it in your practice
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Give it to every child at their cleaning once teeth start wiggling
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Automate it in your “turning five” email drip
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Print as part of your new-patient welcome packet
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Offer it as a free download on your website to collect emails
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Share it on social media (“Get your free Tooth Fairy Guide!”)
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Add it to your school talks, Mom-and-Me groups, or community visits
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Use the Canva-blank version and brand it in < 2 minutes
Want it for your office?
You can download the guide here:
👉 [Download the Tooth Fairy Parent Guide]Â
Final thought
The Tooth Fairy may be tiny — but she’s one of the biggest relationship-builders we have.
When we help parents make the moment magical, we’re not just delivering dentistry…
We’re delivering delight.
And that’s the kind of experience families remember — and refer.
Rhea M. Haugseth, DMD maintained a private practice in Marietta, GA from 1982- 2017. She attended the University of Louisville Dental School and completed her pediatric dental residency at Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital / Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She is proud to be a Fellow the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy – National Honorary Organizations for Dentists.
Dr. Haugseth is a Past President of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry (SSPD), and the Georgia Academy of Pediatric Dentistry(GaPD). Dr. Haugseth has been a National Spokesperson for the AAPD since 1989 and has been frequently interviewed for radio, print, and national television.
Dr. Haugseth is the Founder (2013) and Director of the Atlanta Pediatric Dental Assistant School in Atlanta Georgia. She is also the Founder (2014) and Director of the Pediatric Dental Team Association. She is committed to pediatric dental team members and continues to develop ways to enhance their knowledge and skills both in and out of the dental office.