These dentures are in the collection at Mount Vernon – the only remaining full-set in existence.
Washington was infamous for his poor dental hygiene, and myth has it that his dentures were made of wood! Documentation suggests that Washington's false teeth were really made of a pretty mind boggling combination:
"Throughout his life Washington employed numerous full and partial dentures that were constructed of materials including bone, hippopotamus ivory, human teeth, brass screws, lead, and gold metal wire."
Can you believe it?? It's truly amazing how much dental science has improved! We can only imagine how difficult it was to keep teeth clean and healthy using toothbrushes made of hogs bristles!
Photo of one of George Washington’s toothbrushes (Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association)
Let's celebrate the legends of our country today. Happy President's Day!