If you’re looking for a dentist that is both mercury free and mercury safe, you may be at a bit of a loss as to how to find one. The best way to find a dentist who fits both these criteria is to look at dentists who are members of professional associations that require dentists not only not use mercury, but offer amalgam filling removal that follows certain safety protocols developed to protect you from unnecessary or excessive exposure.
One of the first and most prominent of these organizations is the International Association of Mercury Safe Dentists (IAMSD). IAMSD members commit to:
- Not placing mercury amalgam fillings, and
- Following safe removal procedures.
A second organization whose members are both mercury free and mercury safe is the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. Members of this organization strive to provide the most biocompatible materials available. The organization is actively working to persuade the FDA to ban the use of mercury in dental procedures.
The next organization to consider is the international Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine. This organization focuses on instructing dentists and other health professionals in biological dentistry. The organization emphasizes treatment of the patient as a whole person rather than a collection of isolated parts.
Two organizations, the Institute of Nutritional Dentistry and the Institute of Systemic Dentistry focus on similar areas.. While most of these organizations incorporate nutrition as part of the holistic practice, this organization emphasizes nutrition to promote oral health. The organizations regularly hosts seminars on a variety of topics, including nutrition, technological advances, and biocompatible materials.
The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies is a postgraduate teaching institution dedicated to training dentistry students in the most up to date dental practices. The majority of dentists who graduate from the institute are mercury free. Graduates receive extensive education and training in cosmetic dentistry, including safe removal of mercury fillings and replacement with a variety of materials.
Finally, the Holistic Dental Association was founded for the purpose of promoting whole health practices. Today, individuals are increasingly taking charge of their own health and the Association seeks to help educate those patients who wish to take a greater role in maintaining their own health.
If you’re concerned about dental mercury and looking for a dentist who is both mercury free and mercury safe, a member of any of these organizations is going to be a good choice. As always, though, be sure to ask questions and listen to your instincts.