Losing a tooth is officially paying off.
Just in time for National Tooth Fairy Day on Feb. 28, Scottsdale-based Delta Dental of Arizona’s 2026 Original Tooth Fairy Poll reveals the average value of a single lost tooth jumped 17% over the past year — from $5.01 to $5.84.
And first teeth? They’re commanding premium pricing. The average value of a child’s first lost tooth now lands at $7.17, up from $6.24 in 2025. More than one in three parents (38%) admit the Tooth Fairy leaves a little something extra for that milestone moment.
It’s not just about cash under the pillow, either. Nearly one in three kids (32%) received a non-monetary gift this year — think small toys or special surprises — up from 19% in 2025. The Tooth Fairy is diversifying her portfolio.
Here in Arizona and across the West, kids are doing even better than the national average, pulling in $5.99 per tooth. Only the Northeast tops that, with a sparkling $6.45. Desert smiles, you’re in good company.
“After a couple of thrifty years, the Tooth Fairy decided it was time to give kids a well-deserved raise,” says Gabriella Ferroni, senior director of strategic communications for Delta Dental Plans Association. “For the past 28 years, Delta Dental has tracked Tooth Fairy giving trends to help teach children about caring for their oral health through a trusted partner; the Tooth Fairy. The beloved tradition gives kids a reason to celebrate their healthy smiles.”
Since the poll began in 1998, the average cash gift has soared 349%, climbing from $1.30 to $5.84 per tooth. That’s one way to make inflation feel magical.
Historically, the Original Tooth Fairy Poll® has mirrored the broader economy, often tracking alongside the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index. In recent years, that pattern drifted. Now, it’s back in sync. The 17% increase in average tooth value closely matches a 16% rise in the S&P 500 over the same period.
Regional rankings for a lost tooth
- The Northeast leads at $6.45, with a 41% year-over-year jump.
- The West, including Arizona, holds second at $5.99, up 5% from last year.
- The South comes in at $5.89, slipping from the top spot despite a 3% increase.
- The Midwest lands at $5.27, posting a 52% surge and narrowing the national gap.
For more information on Delta Dental of Arizona, visit deltadentalazblog.com.
