George Washington, the first president of the United States suffered from severe dental problems. He lost his first tooth at the age of 24 and made innumerable visits to several famous dentists throughout his life.
Each time he lost a tooth he preserved it carefully in the hope that it could be used in his dentures. By the year 1789 at the time of the Presidential election he was down to just one tooth.
It was rumoured that his false teeth were made of wood because they wereso discoloured. In reality, his favourite and last dentist, John Greenwood, fashioned them out of ivory placed on a gold sheet and wired them them with steel springs.
Needless to say, they were most uncomfortable, causing a dramatic change in Washington’s appearance with a swollen looking lower lip and a flattened upper lip. George was very conscious of this and he was reluctant to speak out in meetings and to the public.
Why are we sharing this with you, dear reader? Because history repeats itself, even today.
Neglecting your teeth could cost you, well, your teeth!

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September 6, 2016