Volume 220 Issue 9, 13 May 2016
'TOOTH FAIRY' TRADITIONS SERIES: THE BIRD
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 issue represents traditions in which birds play a central role. For example, in Brazil, when the child loses their baby tooth they go outside and recite a poem: 'Lovely birds, dear birds, take away this tooth of mine and bring another one to me.' The birds are believed to take only teeth that are clean - encouraging the child to brush their teeth every day. Indian children throw their tooth on the roof of their house and ask the sparrow to bring them a new one. In Mali, the child throws their tooth in a chicken coop and the next day they hope to find a big fat hen in the coop from which their mother will make chicken soup! Bird-related 'tooth fairy'traditions can also be found in Mauritania, Korea and Moldova.
Painting by Thomas Allen
Website: www.thomasallen.uk.com
The original paintings are available to purchase from the artist.
Editorial
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