The Tooth Fairy as an Economic Indicator?

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What do the Tooth Fairy’s handouts and the Dow Jones Industrial Average have in common? Both are on the rise.

But surely this nonsense is a coincidence, right? Not according to the 13th annual Tooth Fairy Poll [PDF].

This national survey, conducted by oral-education nonprofit Delta Dental, found that the Tooth Fairy was more generous last year than she has been since 2008. Children are receiving an average of $2.52 dollars this year – an 18-percent increase over last year’s $2.13.

In other words, like the Dow Jones, her generosity has been on the rise as the U.S. economy slowly rises from recession.

“This year’s Tooth Fairy Poll average reflects improvements we’re seeing in other areas of the economy,” said Ann Johnson, a director at Delta Dental of Minnesota. “For example, the Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 23 percent during the same time period. The Tooth Fairy may be another indicator that the economy is starting to recover.”

Still skeptical? Check out the numbers for yourself: the green line is the Dow Jones Industrial Average, and the blue line is the Tooth Fairy Index.

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To learn more about the Tooth Fairy Poll, visit TheOfficialToothFairyPoll.com. If the Tooth Fairy no longer supplements your income, try 5 Tips to Take the Bite out of Dental Bills.

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