Where Did George Washington's Teeth Come From
George Washington, the first President of the United States, is known for many things, including his iconic white hair, his leadership during the Revolutionary War, and his role in shaping the country's early government. However, one aspect of Washington's life that is less well-known is the story behind his teeth.
Myth vs. Reality
Contrary to popular belief, George Washington did not have wooden teeth. This is a myth that has been perpetuated for years, likely due to the fact that Washington's dentures were made from a combination of materials that included ivory, human teeth, and animal teeth.
Early Dental Issues
Washington's dental problems began at a young age. By the time he was in his 20s, he had already lost several teeth due to decay and disease. Despite his efforts to maintain good oral health, including brushing his teeth with a toothbrush made from animal hair and rinsing his mouth with vinegar, Washington continued to experience dental issues throughout his life.
Dentures
In the late 1700s, dental care was not as advanced as it is today, and many people who lost their teeth turned to dentures as a solution. Washington was no exception. He had several sets of dentures made during his lifetime, and they were all custom-fitted to his mouth.
The Materials
Washington's dentures were made from a variety of materials, including human teeth, animal teeth, and ivory. The human teeth used to make his dentures were not taken from slaves, as some have suggested, but were likely purchased from dental patients or from corpses.
The ivory used to make Washington's dentures came from hippopotamuses or elephants. It was a popular material for dentures at the time because it was durable and could be shaped to fit the wearer's mouth.
Fitting and Maintenance
Fitting dentures in the 1700s was not an exact science, and Washington's dentures were no exception. They were often uncomfortable and ill-fitting, causing him pain and difficulty eating and speaking. To make matters worse, the materials used to make the dentures were prone to cracking and warping, which required frequent maintenance and repairs.
Legacy
Despite the difficulties that Washington faced with his dentures, he continued to wear them throughout his life. His perseverance in the face of such challenges is just one example of his strength and determination as a leader.
Today, Washington's dentures are on display at the National Museum of Dentistry in Baltimore, Maryland, where they serve as a reminder of the importance of good oral health and the advancements that have been made in dental care over the years.
Conclusion
The story of George Washington's teeth is a fascinating one that sheds light on the state of dental care in the late 1700s. While Washington did not have wooden teeth, his dentures were made from a combination of materials that included human teeth, animal teeth, and ivory. Despite the challenges that he faced with his dentures, Washington continued to wear them throughout his life, showcasing his determination and perseverance as a leader.