Volume 220 Issue 12, 24 June 2016
'TOOTH FAIRY' TRADITIONS SERIES: BURIAL
The cover series for volume 220 of the British Dental Journal features original paintings by English artist Thomas Allen which explore the many different 'tooth fairy' traditions around the world.
The cover of this last issue of the series represents traditions that involve burying the lost primary tooth. In Turkey, the child's parents bury the tooth in an area representative of what they want their child to succeed in later in life. For example, if they want their child to become a doctor, they will bury the tooth in the garden of a hospital. In Nepal, it is believed that if a cow or bird sees or eats the milk tooth then a new one won't grow.
Thus Nepalese children will bury their tooth in the garden, covering it with soil to hide it from prying eyes and chomping teeth. In Malaysia, children bury their tooth because, as it is part of their body, they believe it must be returned to the earth.
Painting by Thomas Allen
Website: www.thomasallen.uk.com
Original paintings available to purchase from the artist.
Editorial
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