The Tooth Fairy now has her own phone number to congratulate kids on losing teeth and encourage them to care for their smiles – helping to promote good oral health habits and reduce the incidence of tooth decay, which is currently estimated statewide at more than 50 percent by the time children reach third grade.
Four pre-recorded voice message options are available, each featuring a different tooth fairy with a distinct pediatric dental health message designed for kids:
- First Lost Tooth – celebrates a child’s first lost tooth and describes to children the importance of their baby teeth
- Lost Tooth – celebrates a child’s lost tooth and encourages children to keep up a healthy smile
- Good Dental Exam – congratulates a child for a good dental exam and prepares them for future appointments
- Poor Dental Exam – provides words of encouragement for a child’s next dental exam if the first appointment did not go well
The new hotline is being offered as part of The Tooth Fairy Experience. This free statewide program presented by Delta Dental of Washington teaches kids how to keep young smiles healthy, and sets them on a path for a lifetime of good oral health through free community and classroom presentations (currently being offered virtually), as well as downloadable materials for educators – developed in partnership with the School Nurse Organization of Washington – which are dentist-reviewed and kid-tested.
Parents and guardians can call the Tooth Fairy Hotline toll-free at 1-833-FAIRY-WA for their children, and select from the four messages from the tooth fairies.
“The Tooth Fairy is a powerful ally in getting kids to care for their smiles,” said Dr Abbie. “So these positive phone messages can be a great tool for helping parents start a dialogue with their children about cavities and the importance of brushing, flossing and nutrition.”
For those looking for more fun ways to engage, the Tooth Fairy has her very own website, social media channels (Facebook and Instagram @ToothFairyWA) and offers customized letters for children who can pick from special message options similar to the hotline. The letters are addressed to each child, and are mailed to homes on the Tooth Fairy’s stationary with a special Tooth Fairy stamp.
Additionally, due to COVID-19, the Tooth Fairy is providing free face masks to children upon request. The masks showcase an illustration of the tooth fairies. Parents and guardians can email the Tooth Fairy at hello@thetoothfairyexperience.com to request a mask while supplies last.
“We’re really excited with the response we’re getting from The Tooth Fairy Experience. Everyone from teachers and librarians, to dentists, parents and most importantly the kids themselves are saying what a wonderful experience this is,” said Kristi Ellefson, senior public relations and brand manager for Delta Dental of Washington. “The Tooth Fairy hotline and letters are just two of the ways the program is making dental health education fun and exciting for kids, helping us achieve our vision for a cavity-free Washington.”
About Delta Dental of Washington
Delta Dental of Washington is the state’s leading dental benefit provider, covering nearly 3 million people in Washington state and nationally. As the only not-for-profit carrier dedicated to improving oral health in Washington, Delta Dental plays a vital role extending access to care for the underserved and vulnerable populations by funding the Arcora Foundation, as well as corporate philanthropy and oral health advocacy. For more information, visit: www.deltadentalwa.com.
