(WYTV)- Did our first president ever wear false wooden teeth? And, if not, where did that idea come from? George Washington suffered from dental issues throughout his life, but his dentures were not made of wood. Despite popular belief, Washington's dentures were crafted from various materials such as gold leaf, lead plates, hippopotamus ivory, and even the teeth of enslaved people. This revelation sheds light on the grim reality of dental practices during that era.
We have all heard the tales about George Washington chopping down a cherry tree, throwing a silver dollar across the Potomac River, and his wooden teeth. However, these stories are nothing more than myths. In reality, Washington's teeth were not made out of wood, but by the time he was inaugurated as president, he only had a single natural tooth left in his mouth. His dentures, although not wooden, were far from comfortable or reliable.
When George Washington opened his mouth 225 years ago this Wednesday at New York's Federal Hall to take the oath as the first president of the United States, he did so with the aid of dentures. These dentures, made from a combination of materials, were a necessity for Washington due to his dental problems. The use of enslaved people's teeth in the construction of his dentures raises ethical questions and highlights the dark history associated with dental care during that time.
George Washington may have used dentures made from the teeth of enslaved people, but it is important to note that he was not directly involved in the extraction of these teeth. Dental practices in the late 18th century were vastly different from modern standards, and the use of unconventional materials was not uncommon. However, this does not excuse the exploitation and dehumanization of enslaved individuals.
Washington's teeth were crafted from various sources, including the teeth of cows, horses, and likely his own teeth as well. The dentures were held together with metal springs, leading to discomfort and difficulty in eating and speaking. Despite these challenges, Washington continued to fulfill his presidential duties with determination and resilience.
When George Washington became president on April 30, 1789, he only had one natural tooth remaining, a single premolar protruding from his gums. This tooth, along with the dentures, caused him immense pain and discomfort throughout his presidency. Washington's struggle with oral health highlights the lack of dental knowledge and resources available during that time period.
George Washington was a remarkable figure in American history, but his dental health was far from exceptional. The myths surrounding his false wooden teeth have overshadowed the truth about his dental struggles. By debunking these myths, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges Washington faced and appreciate his resilience in overcoming them.
In conclusion, George Washington's teeth were not made out of wood, but the reality of his dental situation was far from ideal. His dentures, made from a combination of materials, including enslaved people's teeth, highlight the dark history and ethical questions surrounding dental practices of that era. Washington's dental struggles serve as a reminder of the advancements in oral health care that we now enjoy.
