Tooth Fairy Tradition Could be Putting Children's Health at Risk

While the tooth fairy tradition is still popular among a number of western countries, health experts warn that such a practice could inadvertently putting children's health at risk following a number of cases in which teeth have been discovered in children's ears and windpipe.

Researchers from across London became concerned following misdemeanours of the mythical character and a worrying trend in malpractice.

One boy in particular became extremely distressed because the tooth fairy "had put a tooth in his left ear" after he left it under his pillow.

In another two cases, teeth was found in the oesophagus (causing "a trauma situation") and a man developed an abscess after placing his child's tooth in his nipple piercing so it could be "near to his heart".

The researchers concluded that as there is no clear guidance on how to avoid such complications, they suggested that clinicians have a "high index of suspicion with tooth related presenting complaints".

"As far as we are aware there is no revalidation procedure for the tooth fairy and no clear guidance or standard operating procedures in place to ensure outcomes are avoided," they added.

The paper was published in the BMJ Christmas edition.

Source: ANI