THE HISTORY OF THE TOOTH FAIRY

Citracado Dental Group • Aug 22, 2022

If your little one is on the verge of losing a tooth, you’re probably planning for a visit from a special dental helper. After the tooth wiggles out of place, it can be slipped under a pillow for a monetary prize. Like everything else, this prize has recently gone up for inflation.

National Tooth Fairy Day

To celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day, here are some historic tidbits on how this tradition all got started and some other morsels of information that are fun to know.

The origin story of the Tooth Fairy doesn’t reach as far back as one might assume. An article in the Chicago Daily Tribune in 1908 first introduced the Tooth Fairy, giving the Fairy widespread attention for the first time in the United States. However, they did not attract a mass following until several years later.

Worldwide, fairies who collect teeth in exchange for money are not very common. Other countries, such as France and Spain, prefer to enlist the services of a little mouse to carry out the dental ritual.

Unlike Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy does not have a universally known appearance. A years-old study on the matter revealed that most people think the Tooth Fairy is female and dons Tinkerbell-type gear, like a wand, to work the magical exchange. Disney’s depictions of fairies likely helped further this image of the Tooth Fairy, which has become an iconic symbol of childhood. Like opening a gift on Christmas morning, many children hold onto the memory of losing their first tooth and the reward that came with it, for a lifetime.

Today, children and their families carry on this tradition, but it’s getting a little more expensive.

Due to inflation, in 2022, the average return for a tooth soared to more than $5 each. That represents a 24-year high and a 14 percent gain from just a year ago, according to the Tooth Fairy Index.

Encouraging young ones to exchange their teeth for a reward is a fun tradition, but is also a great way to get them to think about their oral health. Early education about healthy dental habits can put them on the right track for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. We are proud to provide patients with exceptional dental care at all stages of life. Our dentistry services for children include dental cleanings, exams, preventive care and sealants.

Coming into the dental office can sometimes be an unsettling experience for children. Through positive reinforcement, however, we remind children that good oral health is the key to good overall health. We work hard to ease nerves and fears and deliver an exciting and stress-free dental experience for the entire family.

If you are interested in booking an appointment, text us today at 760-206-4133.

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Nurturing Mental Health: Overcoming Dental Anxiety

By Citracado Dental Group • 25 Apr, 2024

As we make way for May, a month of bright blossoms and the start of warmer weather, we also celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month . During this time, we focus our attention on highlighting the fundamental significance of mental wellness. During discussions surrounding anxiety and depression, one topic often overlooked is dental anxiety - an issue that affects millions around the world. Dental anxiety extends beyond mere dislike about going to the dentist. Rather, it is a complex emotional response that can stem from previous experiences, anticipated pain or discomfort or generalized anxiety disorders. For many people, even thinking about dental procedures can trigger intense fear reactions, panic attacks or behaviors aimed at avoiding dental care altogether. Understanding that dental anxiety isn't just about oral health but is often intertwined with broader mental health issues is vital. If you suffer from anxiety disorders or have had traumatic histories, you may be particularly susceptible to dental anxiety. Here are some tips that you can take to help break the cycle of fear and promote overall wellness. Open Communication: Don't hesitate to discuss your trepidation and fears with your dentist. Our team can tailor our approach based on your or your child’s individual needs and offer comforting reassurances throughout your appointment. Relaxation Techniques: Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation before and during your dental appointment. These methods can reduce anxiety levels and promote a feeling of calmness. Gradual Exposure: If you find yourself overwhelmed by dread at the thought of visiting the dentist, consider gradually exposing yourself to different aspects of it – start with neutral activities like sitting in the waiting room or discussing treatment plans. Sedation Dentistry: If you grapple with intense dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can offer significant relief. This method employs medication to induce relaxation during dental procedures, leading to a more comfortable and stress-free experience. Seeking Professional Assistance: If dental anxiety is significantly disrupting your daily life, it might be helpful to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy offers valuable coping strategies and tools to effectively help manage your feelings. Dental anxiety doesn't only affect adults - children can also struggle with it, often due to fear of the unknown or past negative experiences. As parents and caregivers, it's essential to establish positive connections with dental care early on. Here are some suggestions: Early Familiarization: Introduce children to the dental environment well before their first appointment. This can help them become used to both their surroundings and the dental team. Role-playing: Encourage pretend play at home that simulates dentist visits. This helps children grow comfortable with the concept of dental procedures in a fun, secure and non-threatening environment. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child's bravery during dentist appointments. Emphasize the role of oral hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Plus, many little ones look forward to a visit to the toy chest after a visit! While dental anxiety can present a significant challenge to achieving optimal oral health and overall wellness, by addressing the mental health aspects of dental anxiety and applying practical coping strategies, both adults and children can overcome fears and foster positive experiences with dentistry. At Citracado Dental Group, your comfort and well-being are our top priority. We recognize that dental visits can evoke anxiety in some patients, and we strive to surpass expectations in providing a pleasant and positive experience for every patient. Your visit to our office is not just about dental care; it's about feeling relaxed and at ease during your time with us. To help make this happen, we have a selection of great amenities lined up to make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable. From neck or back pillows and soft blankets to bottled water or juice selections, we aim to create a soothing environment where you can unwind. Need to zone out? You can enjoy your favorite music on a personal iPad or indulge in a hot cup of gourmet coffee or tea from our bar. We also offer complimentary Wi-Fi, headphones for your listening pleasure, and even facial towels and lip balm for an extra special touch. We’re committed to ensuring your trip to our office is an enjoyable one! Schedule your next visit by calling or texting 760-489-5545.