We’ve all heard the story: the first President of the United States, a man of simple grit, carved his own dentures out of wood. It’s a charming piece of Americana, but it is entirely fictional. George Washington never wore wooden teeth, though the truth of what was actually in his mouth is far more uncomfortable.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why the “Wood” Rumor Stuck
If you looked at Washington’s dentures toward the end of his life, you might have mistaken them for wood. Because the materials were organic—specifically ivory and bone—they were highly porous. Years of sipping dark port wine stained the dentures, while the natural decay of the materials created a dark, grainy texture that mimicked timber.
A Macabre Mosaic
In reality, Washington’s dental hardware was a high-tech (for the 1700s) nightmare. By his 1789 inauguration, he had just one natural tooth left. To fill the gap, his dentists used a “best-available” mixture of:
- Transplanted Human Teeth: Often sourced from the poor or enslaved workers.
- Animal Remains: Carved pieces of horse and donkey teeth.
- Exotic Ivory: Sections of hippopotamus and elephant tusks.
- Industrial Metals: Lead, gold, and brass fasteners.
The Cost of a Silent Smile
These weren’t just ugly; they were agonizing. The upper and lower plates were joined by heavy metal springs designed to push the sets apart so they wouldn’t slip. To keep his mouth closed, Washington had to constantly clench his jaw.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | The Legend | The History |
| Primary Material | Oak or Pine | Ivory, lead, and human teeth |
| Appearance | Rustic and simple | Stained, cracked, and metallic |
| Daily Experience | Effortless | Chronic pain and facial distortion |
