Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) — The Indian Health Service, which provides health care to Native Americans and Alaska Natives has announced it will phase out the use of dental fillings containing mercury. Native American rights and industry advocates have called for an end to the practice, arguing it exposes patients who may not have access to private dentistry to a harmful neurotoxin. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, dental amalgam fillings can release small amounts of mercury vapor during placement, removal, teeth grinding and gum chewing. The IHS says it will fully implement the move to mercury-free alternatives by 2027.
