Comment from anita tibau
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Summary: Anita Vazquez Tibau supports the proposed action to phase out mercury-containing dental amalgams, citing the Indian Health Service's transition as a successful model. She argues that the nationwide use of mercury fillings poses significant health risks to millions of Americans and calls for a federal mandate to switch to safer alternatives.
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is leading by example: They're fully phasing out mercury-containing dental amalgam by 2027, switching to safer, mercury-free alternatives. This protects tribal communities—especially pregnant women, children, and those most vulnerable—from ongoing toxic mercury exposure. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. nailed it: “This is a commonsense step that protects patients and prevents harm before it starts.” Since 2007, IHS has dramatically reduced amalgam use in high-risk groups, investing in training and infrastructure for modern, non-toxic dentistry. It's a powerful model of prevention and equity. But let's face the brutal truth: While IHS moves ahead, the rest of the country remains poisoned. NHANES data from the CDC reveals the scale—over 100 million Americans (roughly 104 million in recent estimates) carry mercury amalgam fillings, with studies showing about 58% of adults having at least one amalgam surface. These "silver" fillings are 50% mercury—a known neurotoxin that releases vapor daily, elevating blood and urinary mercury levels in direct proportion to the number of fillings. Millions face heightened risks: neurological issues, kidney strain, immune disruption, and environmental contamination as mercury enters our waterways and food chain. This isn't ancient history—it's happening RIGHT NOW to everyday Americans. Why tolerate this outdated danger when safer options exist? Why let profit and inertia keep poisoning our people while federal programs like IHS prove change is possible? It's time for a NATIONAL phase-out of mercury amalgams. Demand mercury-free dentistry for EVERYONE. Protect our kids, our families, our future.