Leroy E. Burney, MD, MPH: quiet champion of American dentistry and dental research at mid-century.

ABSTRACT

Leroy E. Burney was a preeminent Surgeon General and was recognized for modernizing the Public Health Service. He promoted environmental public health and access to health care for the poor. He oversaw major expansion of health professions' education and research, and he was the first public official to alert America to the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer. Historical accounts of Burney's legacy have not focused on his remarkable contributions to dental public health. The aim of this study was to elucidate Burney's role over four decades in promoting the interests of dentistry in America, through his support of dental science, dental education, and public access to dental health services. Burney engaged in dental research and developed a model dental public health program for Indiana. As Surgeon General, he oversaw dramatic expansion of dental research and education and the building of the National Institute for Dental Research. A skillful collaborator, Burney worked toward common goals with leaders of American dentistry and Congress. He was one of the few physician members of the Trustees of the American Fund for Dental Education. A humble man, Burney was a quiet champion of American dentistry and dental research for almost forty years.