The world of dental and oral care may seem pretty straightforward to most of us, because we’ve never known it to be anything else. However, today’s guest, Katie Decker, has had quite the health journey..with her teeth. While Katie isn’t a dentist, she has experienced an array of issues with her teeth, which led her down a major dental and oral health research rabbit hole. Katie hasn’t been afraid to share her research and findings publicly, which has definitely sparked some controversy online (especially from dentists).  Katie and I talk about her initial decision to have multiple root canals removed, and her eventual diagnoses of both hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease. We also dive into the impact of heavy metal in your mouth and throughout your body, the down and dirty details of fluoride, cavities, and root canals, simple ways to best support your teeth and overall dental health, finding a dentist who’s actually aligned with your unique goals and plan for your dental health, and more.Episode Recap: Katie’s sudden realization that she needed to have her root canals extracted, and what’s transpired for her since making that decision {5:40}Why you’re like a ‘walking antenna’ for EMF when you have a great deal of heavy metal in your mouth, body, etc. {12:57}The history surrounding the usage of metal fillings in dentistry + the origination of Mad Hatter disease {14:05}Using the SMART Amalgam Removal Technique when you’re ready to remove your dental fillings {20:00}Ways you can support your overall detoxification and immune system during the heavy metal removal process from your mouth and body {23:40}The down and dirty details of what fluoride + how it impacts iodine and your thyroid {26:48}Katie’s journey with both a hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s diagnosis + how these impacted her health going forward {30:22}The controversial topic of iodine + the iodine-loading test {34:22}Katie’s experience with completely going off her thyroid medication {38:45}The process of finding a dentist who’s open to change + aligned with you and your goals regarding YOUR unique dental health {40:32}Why there’s such a big push to remove wisdom teeth + the increased usage of palate expanders in kids {46:03}What cavities really are + the usage of silver diamine {47:38}Why root canals are NOT a long-term solution + their connection to the adrenals {52:27}Finding an optimal ‘flow’ with your day to day schedule and making time for your non-negotiables {1:00:48}The endless benefits of muscle mass on your body, especially as you age {1:08:00}**Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the advice of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.Complete show notes (including all links and resources I mentioned in this episode): https://margaretpowell.com/podcast/episode31Connect with Katie on Instagram @simply.well.katieConnect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell and @fueledandfreenutritionFor questions or suggestions about the podcast, send us an email at fueledandfreepodcast@gmail.com