#21: George Washington’s Wooden Teeth
Contrary to the enduring myth of George Washington’s dentures being crafted from wood, historical records reveal a more intricate truth. Washington’s dentures were actually made from a combination of materials, including ivory, gold, lead, and human teeth, both his own and those acquired from slaves and possibly from horses as well.
The misconception of wooden dentures likely arose from misinterpretations or exaggerations over time. While sanitized and widely circulated, this myth obscures the harsh realities of Washington’s reliance on slave labor and the complexities of his personal life.