Most kids know George Washington as our nation’s first President, a brave general, and the face of the one‑dollar bill. However, did you know he was also famous for something far less heroic? His teeth! Washington’s lifelong dental struggles have become the stuff of legend, and Presidents Day is the perfect time to explore the truth behind his tooth troubles.
When Did Washington’s Dental Problems Begin?
George Washington’s dental issues didn’t suddenly appear when he was older, they began surprisingly early. By the age of 24, he was already losing teeth and paying dentists for extractions, even noting in his diary that he paid a “Doctor Watson” five shillings to remove one of them. [mountvernon.org], [en.wikipedia.org]
Throughout his life he suffered repeated illnesses, such as smallpox, malaria, and fevers, which weakened his overall health and may have contributed to ongoing dental problems. He was also treated with calomel, a mercury‑based medicine known today to erode teeth and gums. In addition to that, the tooth powders of the era were often harsh and abrasive, sometimes containing ingredients like pumice or even burnt bread, which could wear down enamel. [en.wikipedia.org], [americanre...lution.org] [americanre...lution.org]
By the time Washington took the oath of office in 1789 at age 57, he had only one natural tooth left. [en.wikipedia.org]
What Happened to His Teeth?
Washington spent most of his adult life battling constant dental pain. Letters and diary entries describe toothaches, swelling, loose teeth, and frequent infections. He purchased toothbrushes, denture files, cleaning solutions, and toothache remedies regularly, and he relied heavily on dentists for extractions and maintenance. [mountvernon.org], [en.wikipedia.org]
Were His Dentures Really Made of Wood?
This is one of the most popular myths in American history, but it’s entirely false. Washington never had wooden dentures. The confusion likely came from the way his denture materials aged over time. Ivory and natural teeth would darken and develop a grainy texture, which could make them look like wood to the casual observer. [mountvernon.org], [dentistmck...ytexas.com]
George Washington’s dentures were surprisingly complex. They included human teeth, along with teeth from cows and horses, and were carved from materials like elephant or hippopotamus ivory. The dentures were mounted with metal components such as brass, silver alloy, lead-tin alloy, and even gold wiring to hold everything together. [mountvernon.org], [en.wikipedia.org], [dentistmck...ytexas.com]
These dentures were not comfortable by any means. Some used metal springs to push them open, and bolts to keep them aligned. They often fit poorly and caused him pain, which may be why portraits show him with a tight-lipped expression. Historians believe the dentures even altered the shape of his face. [dentistmck...ytexas.com]
How Do Washington’s Dentures Compare to Today’s?
If George Washington could see modern dentistry, he’d probably envy us all. Today’s dental technology bears almost no resemblance to the uncomfortable contraptions he wore. Modern dentures are crafted from advanced materials like acrylics and porcelain, designed to fit comfortably and look natural. Thanks to digital imaging and improved dental science, patients now have access to tooth replacement options that are secure, functional, and completely pain-free compared to the clunky spring-loaded dentures of Washington’s time. [dentistmck...ytexas.com]
A Presidents Day Smile
George Washington led a revolution, shaped a nation, and set precedents still followed today, but behind the scenes, he also faced a monumental personal battle with dental disease. His story reminds us why caring for our teeth matters.
So, this Presidents Day, remember even the greatest leaders need good oral hygiene. And thanks to modern dentistry and dental offices such as UPD Dental Associates, keeping your smile bright is easier than ever!
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Sources
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“The Trouble with Teeth.” George Washington’s Mount Vernon, www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/health/washingtons-teeth. [mountvernon.org]
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“George Washington’s Teeth.” Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Washington%27s_teeth. [en.wikipedia.org]
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“George Washington’s Teeth: The Truth Behind the Myth and the Evolution of Dentistry.” Dentist McKinney Texas, 19 Mar. 2025, dentistmckinneytexas.com/george-washingtons-teeth-truth-myth-dentistry-evolution/. [dentistmck...ytexas.com]
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Glover, Barbara. “George Washington’s Teeth and Dental Problems.” AmericanRevolution.org, www.americanrevolution.org/george-washingtons-dental-problems/. [americanre...lution.org]