Was George Washington's Dentures Made Of Slaves Teeth
George Washington, the first President of the United States, is an important figure in American history. His leadership and courage during the Revolutionary War and his contributions to the formation of the American government have made him a beloved figure in American history. However, there is a controversy about whether or not George Washington's dentures were made of slave's teeth.
The History of George Washington's Teeth
George Washington suffered from dental problems throughout his life. He lost his first tooth when he was just 22 years old, and by the time he became President, he had only one tooth left in his mouth. To address this problem, Washington turned to dentures.
Contrary to popular belief, George Washington's dentures were not made of wood. In fact, they were made from a combination of materials like hippopotamus ivory, human teeth, and animal teeth. These dentures were uncomfortable and ill-fitting, causing Washington constant pain and discomfort.
The Controversy
There is a myth that has circulated for years that George Washington's dentures were made from the teeth of slaves. However, there is no evidence to support this claim. There is no mention in any of Washington's correspondence or journals of him using slave teeth for his dentures.
It is important to note that dentistry was not an established profession in the 18th century. Dentists were often barbers or amateurs who had little knowledge of proper dental care. It was not uncommon for people to use human teeth, whether they belonged to slaves or not, as a replacement for their own lost teeth.
The Truth About George Washington's Dentures
While it is not true that George Washington's dentures were made from the teeth of slaves, it is true that he purchased teeth from slaves. In 1784, Washington paid several of his slaves for "9 Teeth on Acct of Dr Lemay." It is unclear what these teeth were used for, but it is possible that they were used as implants for Washington's dentures.
It is important to understand that this was a common practice at the time. Dental implants were not yet invented, and people had to use whatever was available to replace their missing teeth. While it is unsettling to think that Washington purchased teeth from slaves, it was not an uncommon practice for the time.
The Legacy of George Washington's Dentures
Regardless of whether or not George Washington's dentures were made from slave teeth, the controversy surrounding them highlights the important role that slavery played in American history. Slaves were often treated as property, and their bodies were used for a variety of purposes, including medical experimentation and dissection.
While it is uncomfortable to confront this aspect of American history, it is important to acknowledge it in order to move forward as a society. By learning from the mistakes of the past, we can work to create a more just and equitable future for all Americans.
Conclusion
While the myth that George Washington's dentures were made from slave teeth is not true, it is true that he purchased teeth from slaves. This practice was common in the 18th century, when dental care was not yet an established profession. Regardless of the controversy surrounding Washington's dentures, it is important to acknowledge the role that slavery played in American history and work to create a more just and equitable future.
