One of the most persistent myths in American history is that George Washington, the first President of the United States, wore wooden dentures. This story has been passed down through generations, but how true is it? While the image of Washington with wooden teeth may be iconic, it’s far from accurate. The reality of his dental struggles and the extraordinary measures he took to address them is a compelling journey into the dental practices of the 18th century.
The Truth Behind Washington’s Dental Issues
From his early twenties, George Washington faced significant dental problems. His diary entries and letters reveal a life plagued by toothaches, inflamed gums, and frequent tooth loss. By the time he reached his 40s, Washington had lost most of his teeth, a condition likely caused by poor diet, limited dental hygiene practices, and genetic predisposition.
Despite his legendary physical endurance, Washington’s dental health remained a constant source of pain and discomfort. He sought out remedies, including dental powders, tooth scrapers, and even rudimentary forms of toothpaste. Unfortunately, 18th-century dentistry was primitive, offering little relief or effective treatment.
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A Closer Look at Washington’s Dentures
Contrary to popular belief, none of George Washington’s dentures were made of wood. Instead, his dentures were constructed from a combination of materials, including human teeth, cow and horse teeth, hippopotamus ivory, and metal alloys like gold and brass. These dentures were crafted by skilled dentists like John Greenwood, a Revolutionary War veteran who pioneered early American dentistry.
Greenwood’s designs were innovative for their time. One of his notable creations featured a space left for Washington’s last remaining natural tooth, which he believed should be preserved at all costs. However, when that tooth was finally removed in 1796, Washington gave it to Greenwood, who kept it in a custom-made case.
While expertly crafted, these dentures were far from comfortable. Washington often complained that they caused facial disfigurement, pushed his lips outward, and made eating and speaking difficult.
French Connection: Washington’s Revolutionary Dentist
During the Revolutionary War, Washington employed the services of Dr. Jean-Pierre Le Mayeur, a French dentist who had previously treated British officers. Le Mayeur’s expertise in dental prosthetics and his innovative techniques provided Washington with partial dentures during the war years.
The two developed a strong friendship, and Le Mayeur became a frequent visitor to Mount Vernon after the war. Although records do not specify all the treatments Le Mayeur performed, his contributions to Washington’s dental care were invaluable during a period of intense physical and mental strain.
A Single Tooth at the Inauguration
By the time George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States in 1789, he had only one natural tooth remaining. Greenwood designed dentures that accommodated this last tooth, a testament to Washington’s determination to preserve what little he had left.
When this tooth was eventually removed, it became a sentimental artifact. Greenwood kept it as a memento, preserving it in a glass case that he carried on a chain.
The Challenges of 18th-Century Dentistry
Dental prosthetics in Washington’s era were not only uncomfortable but also required meticulous maintenance. His dentures often became stained and required frequent cleaning with wax, chalk, or pine sticks. Washington also had to soak his dentures in broth to soften the ivory, making them somewhat easier to wear.
The discomfort caused by these devices was compounded by their impact on Washington’s appearance. His ill-fitting dentures caused his lower jaw to protrude, a detail captured in Gilbert Stuart’s famous portraits.
The Dark Side: Human Teeth in Washington’s Dentures
A lesser-known and troubling aspect of Washington’s dentures was the use of human teeth. Records show that Washington purchased teeth from enslaved individuals, paying them for their contribution. While this practice was common in the 18th century, it raises ethical questions about consent and exploitation, particularly given the limited agency of enslaved people.
The inclusion of human teeth highlights the harsh realities of historical dental practices and the societal structures of the time.
Dental Challenges and the British Army
Washington’s dental issues played an unexpected role in the Revolutionary War. In 1781, a personal letter from Washington to his dentist requesting cleaning tools was intercepted by the British. The letter misled British commanders – Sir Henry Clinton into believing that Washington’s army was not preparing to move south.
This misinterpretation contributed to the British failure to reinforce Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown, ultimately leading to a decisive American victory.
Family Matters: Martha Washington’s Dentures
George Washington wasn’t the only member of his family to struggle with dental problems. By the late 1790s, Martha Washington also required partial dentures. Her correspondence with dentists reveals her desire for a functional yet aesthetically pleasing set of teeth.
Martha’s dental concerns reflected the growing awareness of oral health during the period and her efforts to maintain a dignified appearance as the First Lady.
The Impact on Washington’s Public Life
Washington’s dental struggles significantly affected his public life. His discomfort often made him reluctant to speak at length, and he was acutely aware of the impact his dentures had on his appearance. Observers noted changes in his facial structure over time, with his portraits showing a pronounced lower jaw.
Despite these challenges, Washington maintained a stoic demeanor, prioritizing his duties as a leader over his personal discomfort.
Preserving History: Washington’s Dentures Today
Today, George Washington’s dentures are preserved as artifacts at Mount Vernon and the New York Academy of Medicine. These relics offer a glimpse into the ingenuity of early dentistry and the personal struggles of one of America’s most iconic figures.
Visitors to Mount Vernon can view the only complete set of Washington’s dentures, made from ivory, human teeth, and metal components. These artifacts serve as a tangible connection to the man behind the myth and his perseverance in the face of adversity.
Conclusion: More Than a Myth
The story of George Washington’s teeth is a fascinating blend of myth and reality. While the wooden teeth legend may persist, the truth reveals a complex narrative of resilience, innovation, and the challenges of 18th-century medicine. Washington’s dental struggles humanize him, reminding us that even the greatest leaders face personal trials. His dentures, preserved for posterity, symbolize not only his determination but also the ingenuity of a bygone era.
