“George Washington had wooden teeth.”

Many people commonly believe that George Washington, the first President of the United States, wore wooden teeth. While it is true that Washington suffered greatly from dental problems throughout his life and used multiple sets of dentures, the idea that they were carved from wood is a persistent misconception. This myth likely arose from the discolored and stained appearance of the actual materials used in his dental prosthetics, which could have been mistaken for wood.

Historical evidence reveals that Washington's dentures were crafted from a rather surprising array of materials. Far from simple wood, his various sets included ivory, often sourced from hippopotamus or elephant tusks, and even human teeth. These were meticulously held together with lead, brass screws, and gold wire. The dental practices of the 18th century, while rudimentary by today's standards, involved complex solutions to address severe tooth loss, reflecting the limited options available at the time.

The enduring myth of wooden teeth probably stems from the fact that ivory, over time and with use, yellows and stains, especially when exposed to substances like wine and tobacco. This discoloration could easily give the impression of a wood-like texture or appearance, making the story of wooden teeth seem plausible. Understanding the true composition of Washington's dentures offers a fascinating glimpse into both his personal struggles with health and the innovative, if sometimes unsettling, world of early American dentistry.