Memoirs of a Tooth Fairy

I've decided to reveal a secret today, a secret identity that is.  I have taken on a great responsibility and joined the ranks of many a winged comrade.  I have been living a double life as a Photographer and Tooth Fairy, A.K.A. Sparkle.  I thought today would be an appropriate day to share this with all of you grown-ups since it's National Tooth Fairy Day! 

I, along with my partner in dental health, Laura Finley-Hygienist, have been touring schools for the past five years teaching young children about the importance of brushing and flossing.  In association with Advanced Dental we visit preschool and kindergarten classrooms around Northwest Indiana and educate the children on the basics of dental health.  It's a lot of fun to see their reactions when the actual, real Tooth Fairy walks in the door.  I go all out with the make-up, glitter and sparkly gown.

It seems like such a small thing but the interactions we've had with all these children are immeasurably heart-warming and often funny.

Over the years I've hear all kinds of stories and gotten some challenging questions.  Usually I hear the very ego boosting "you're so beautiful!", " I love you!" and "I love your dress!".  I swear, I feel like a celebrity.  There's the occasional smart skeptic that says "she's not real" or  "show us how you fly".  Then there's always an overzealous brusher that says "I brush my teeth 100 times a day!"  Sometimes someone tattles on their parents; "My Dad never brushes his teeth.  He has cavities." Haha!

I come prepared and I've managed to have an answer for almost everything.  Here are some of my standard answers:

• "I wear sneakers so that I can sneak around while you are sleeping." 
• "Yes there is more than one Tooth Fairy." 
• "I live in Tooth Fairy Land." 
• "Of course I can fly, that's why I have wings."
• "Sorry, no I can't fly or do magic while you're all awake." 
• "Of course I know where you live, you live in Indiana!" 
• "Parents negotiate the terms and the cost of your teeth."
• "What do I do with all the teeth?  I use the cleanest, healthiest teeth to make magic fairy dust and that's how I fly."  (I know that one might be a little weird but I had to make it up on the spot once.)

The hugs are always precious and the looks of shock and whispers that follow when they see my wings appearing to move on their own are so fun.  Some kids are just so mature and have it all figured out. Some are very vocal about their doubts and others just go along with the fun.  I hear all about their baby brothers and sisters and they all show me how many teeth they've lost and which ones are wiggly. 

However, the thing that stands out the most each and every time is the children's desire to do well, listen and learn.  They want to please the "Tooth Fairy" and they are so full of love and wonder.  Sometimes they are so overcome with the urge to hug me that they jump from their seats and run over to me.  I'm almost brought to tears every time!  It amazes me and reminds me how wonderful these little people are.   Teachers must feel this on a daily basis.

I feel so lucky to be able to share a healthy message and a little magic with these awesome kids.  I know the real magic lies in the hearts and minds of these little ones.

I share with you now, as I always say at the end of each visit, in the words of Sparkle;

"Show me your beautiful smiles! Do promise to take good care of them and brush your teeth before you go to bed tonight.  I'll see you all again someday, even if you don't see me.  Goodbye for now"