George Washington's Teeth

Module 11

George Washington's Teeth by Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora

Summary


This is a very informative and sort of hilarious book. The book is about George Washington and his struggle with rotten teeth. The events of his life were address in the book as he battled tooth problems. By the time George Washington was President he had on two teeth in his mouth. Eventually George Washington lost all of his teeth. During all the major battles and important events in George Washington’s life he was battling problems with his teeth. George Washington eventually received false teeth made from hippo tusk that fit perfectly. They were not made of wood. Also the book has a very detailed timeline which was taken from George Washington’s, letters, diaries and other historical records.

My Impression

I truly enjoyed this little story. I loved the pictures in the book. I also learned some history I did not know about. With all the accomplishments he made, who would have thought he was having problems with his teeth. It’s a good thing for George Washington he is not living during this time. His problems about his teeth would be on every talk show, every news show and his teeth would be the subject of every comedian’s jokes. I would recommend this book for everyone to read young and old because it is entertaining as well historical.

How would I use this book as a lesson.

Read A Loud

This book can be used to teach lessons on taking care of your teeth. Discuss George Washington’s Teeth. Include Hygiene items such as Toothpaste, toothbrush and dental floss. Talk about why each is important. Ask students to share their daily regiment for taking care of their teeth.
Ask questions as to why they think George Washington had problems with his teeth.

Bibliography

Chandra, Deborah, and Madeleine Comora. George Washington's Teeth. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux, 2003. Print.