From: DrJoker44@aol.com
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2006 11:44 AM
To: Adjodha, Michael E
Subject: Mercury

Dear Sir;
    I am a general dentist in Missouri. I began my career as a medical technologist, and after earning my Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, I completed an additional year of hospital residency. I have often told my patients I am a scientist, but I make my living as a dentist. I believe that the scientific facts regarding the toxicity of mercury far outweigh the political agenda of any medical or dental organization. A review of the historic confrontations between the American Society of Dental Surgeons and the American Dental Association; will clearly show that the ADA has been promoting the use of mercury/amalgam since its inception. In the 30 years that I have been an avid reader of scientific research I find both well done studies and poor studies, The study that came out this summer stating that neutral funded research had much different outcomes than drug company funded research was interesting, however obvious. Please do not bow to political pressure. Examine the known facts about mercury and its biological and neurological effects. I trust you to decide what is best for the welfare of both the patients and the people who work in dental offices.                             Thank You,  Joseph Hunt Kerwin DDS