George Washington and his Wooden Teeth

Every February, America remembers and celebrates George Washington’s birthday. It’s hard not to think about Washington and the story of him chopping down a cherry tree or about his wooden teeth. While these stories might make great water cooler conversation, they are just myths.

Unfortunately, Washington had problems with his teeth throughout his entire life and by the time he took office in 1789, all of his teeth had fallen out except for one.

Washington’s dentures were made from a variety of materials, including hippopotamus ivory, gold, and lead. The ivory used in the dentures became stained over time giving them a grained and wooden appearance.

Unfortunately, for Washington, his teeth were a constant source of discomfort and pain throughout his entire life. This just goes to demonstrate the importance of taking care of your teeth and practicing good dental hygiene.

For more interesting facts about George Washington visit  George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

Photo of George Washington’s teeth courtesy of George Washington’s Mount Vernon.