Poll: Tooth Fairy leaves an average of $2.10

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OAK BROOK, Ill., Feb. 22 (UPI) -- An Illinois non-profit said its annual survey suggests the "Tooth Fairy" left an average 42 cents less in 2011 than in 2010.

Delta Dental, based in Oak Brook, said its annual online survey of 1,355, dubbed the Original Tooth Fairy Poll, suggests children who lost a tooth received an average $2.10 in 2011, down from the average $2.52 in 2010.

"Like many Americans, the Tooth Fairy needed to tighten her belt in 2011, but she's hopeful for a recovery this year," said Chris Pyle, spokesman for the Delta Dental Plans Association. "More importantly, Delta Dental is encouraged that parents are still making visits to the dentist a priority for their children."

Pyle said the organization was happy to find 90 percent of parents participating in the survey said their children visit the dentist every six months.