How important is a set of functional teeth?
Important enough for the first American president, General George Washington, to endure a lifetime of discomfort just to be able to enjoy an apple or converse clearly.
During his younger years, Washington began enduring dental problems. At the time, Colonial dentists had few methods aside from extraction to remedy serious concerns; consequently, Washington’s teeth were systematically pulled out, year after year. This necessitated “false teeth” — dentures — to be created for the robust, 6′2″ man.
Contrary to popular belief, the teeth that were made for Washington were not wooden, but were a combination of ivory, gold, human teeth, animal teeth and lead. They also didn’t fit very well, which is likely why every portrait of the father of our country looks dour and somber. (In fact, he was quite gregarious and loved to entertain – in one year, over 600 guests visited his historic home, Mount Vernon!)
Why didn’t he simply remove the false teeth that caused so much pain? The same reason that people today don’t want to go around with visible cavities, gaps in their teeth and chipped teeth – they don’t have to! In Washington’s time, the dentures he wore were state-of-the-art and served a purpose, regardless of the pain they caused.
Fortunately, 21st century cosmetic dentistry offers almost zero discomfort and none of the lifelong trauma that Washington tolerated until his death in 1799. And you don’t have to be a president to afford the latest cosmetic procedures – they’re economical and reliable for most folks.
The next time you’re considering improving your appearance, remember that you’re in good company. Even a Founding Father knew the value of a great set of teeth!
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