Dr. Leif Rasmussen Believes in Conscientious Dentistry

Mercury Free

The EPA estimates that more than 103,000 dental offices in the US continue to use dental amalgams for restorations, contributing to the release of more than 5.1 tons of mercury into publicly owned treatment works each year, which ultimately finds its way into the environment. We are not one of them.

50% Less Water

We use 50% less water than other dentist offices by empoloying WaterSense approved products throughout our entire practice.

Patient Health

Treating the mouth as it applies to the whole body and person, not as a separate part. We must think of the real person when treating dental issues.

Community Health

We are eliminating harmful chemicals discharged to our water system, keeping our water clean and local wildlife happy. We all share our island’s resources.

Environmental Footprint

We strive to reduce single-use products and plastics, lessening our impact on both wildlife and the environment. What we keep out of our landfills can not end up in our oceans and forests.

Ecological Impact

When we consider our actions and reduce our negative impact on the ecology, we can make a difference for years to come.

Minimal Single-Use Plastics

We have reduced the use of single-use plastics where possible and continue to make changes to reduce the use of disposable consumables.

Biodegradable Floss

We are supplying biodegradable floss made from cornsilk in refillable glass containers and bamboo toothbrushes as samples.

Non-toxic Disinfectants

We have implemented an environmentally safe and non-toxic disinfectant that is very effective against viruses and bacteria. We produce the disinfectant in-house through the electrolysis of salt water. Hypochlorous acid is known as a natural germ killer. Learn more

Maximized Recycling

As many people do at home, we actively recycle and compost.

Digital X-Rays

Our digital x-ray system requires no chemicals and produces zero (0.00) waste.

Water-free Oral Vacuums

Our dental vacuums are 100% water-free, which means zero water waste. Learn more

"As important as our commitment to the environment is, it will never supersede our commitment to protect our patients and staff's health. While we use plastics for minimal sanitary purposes, we continue to research alternatives."

We here at Vashon Dental maintain expectations set by our patients in both the quality and longevity of our treatments and procedures and their safety and well-being.

Challenge

Most dental offices used single-use disposable plastics and commonly offered dental machinery and supplies.

Inexpensive and widely available
No government restricitons against use

Solution

Vashon Dental has reduced the number of single-use plastics and switched to biodegradable and reusable products. We think long term with what we provide and the downstream environmental effects of our daily servicing of patients.

Ensure mercury-free and metal-free fillings and crowns
No use of inferior materials for purposes of internal cost-cutting
Reduction of our impact on the environment in all aspects of our practice

“Growing up in Tacoma and attending the University of Washington and Washington State University has made me very aware of the changes seen across our state over the past 40 years. These changes are why I have devoted my practice to daily efforts targeted at preserving our beautiful region, wildlife, residents, and patients. Preservation has been our belief and daily routine here at Vashon Dental since I became owner of the practice in 2006. I vow to keep this in mind for both our patients and our fragile ecology.””

Dr. Leif Rasmussen, Owner of Vashon Dental

References:

Switching to move toward a greener, more eco-friendly dental practice is not an easy task, but it's doable. Even a small effort on our part can have a significant environmental impact. If you're not a patient of Vashon Dental, please request that your regular dentist enforces these practices for both your health as well as local ecological health.

1: Eco Dentistry Association. What Is Green Dentistry? Eco Dentistry Association website. [ Accessed August 15, 2021 ]
https://ecodentistry.org/green-dentistry/what-is-green-dentistry
2: ADA. 80 Ways to Make Your Dental Practice Green. ADA Center for Professional Success website. [ Accessed August 15, 2021 ]
https://success.ada.org/en/practice-management/office-design/80-ways-to-make-your-dental-practice-green
3: EPA. Dental Effluent Guidelines. EPA website. [ Accessed August 15, 2021 ]
https://www.epa.gov/eg/dental-effluent-guidelines
4: Eco Dentistry Association. Product Guide: GreenDOC™ Product Guide. Eco Dentistry Association website. [ Accessed August 15, 2021 ]
https://ecodentistry.org/greendoc/product-guide
5: EPA. Statistics and Facts. EPA website. [ Accessed August 15, 2021 ]
https://www.epa.gov/watersense/statistics-and-facts

Memberships & Accreditations

Dr. Rasmussen holds active certifications with trusted affiliates both in the dental industry as well as the Vashon Island community. We are happy to consult with you about the best options for you or to provide referrals to local providers as needed.