Did the Tudors deliberately make their teeth look black?

Yes, the Tudors, particularly during the reign of Henry VIII, often deliberately stained their teeth black as a sign of wealth and status. This practice was primarily due to the consumption of sugar, which was expensive and a luxury item at the time. Blackened teeth were seen as a symbol of affluence, as it indicated that one could afford sugary foods that contributed to dental decay. Additionally, certain remedies and treatments used to maintain oral health could also lead to darkened teeth.