After nearly three decades of dedication, Erika Hagstrom‑Dossi, affectionately known as the “Tooth Fairy,” is stepping down as the Director of Smile Keepers—our cherished school‑based dental program. Since 1994, Erika has transformed smiles and sparked healthy habits for roughly 4,800 children annually through screenings, education, and fluoride varnish applications.
A Legacy of Prevention & Compassion
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Founding spirit of Smile Keepers: Erika began leading the grant‑funded initiative in the mid-90s and guided its evolution into a county‑wide cornerstone of student health.
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Innovator & mentor: Under her leadership, Smile Keepers received a prestigious 5‑year HRSA grant in 2020 to launch a Virtual Dental Home in partnership with UCSF School of Dentistry—bringing tele-dental care directly to rural schools like Tenaya Elementary.
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Community connector: Alongside her fantastic team, Erika forged partnerships with local preschools, school districts, dental clinics, and health agencies—creating a robust network supporting Tuolumne County families.
Honoring a Legacy That Sparkles
In recognition of Erika’s incredible impact, the Tuolumne County Board of Education approved Resolution 2025‑07, officially declaring the first Friday in February as “Tooth Fairy Day.” This new annual celebration will honor the spirit of kindness, prevention, and care that Erika brought to her work—and to thousands of children across our county.
Erika’s Impact in Her Own Words
“It’s about more than brushing and varnish—it’s building trust and empowering kids to take care of their smiles.”
Erika’s warmth, creativity, and unwavering belief in each child have made her a calming presence in clinics and classrooms across the county.
Thank You, Tooth Fairy
On behalf of TCSOS, we express our deepest gratitude to Erika for her tireless leadership and joyful spirit. Her legacy lives on in every confident grin she’s inspired—over 140,000 smiles since 1994.
As she embarks on her next adventure, we wish her nothing but joy, rest, and the occasional glittery wing flutter. Thank you, Erika—you’ve truly left a permanent impression (but not the cavity kind).