title: Pioneer of oral medicine: Lester W. Burket, D.D.S., M.D.
abstract: Lester William Burket (1907-1991) was a man of intellect, integrity, and vision. He was a pioneer in the field of oral medicine and is considered by many to be the father of this discipline. He was one of the first educators to promote the concept of integration of medicine into dental education and clinical practice. His belief of oral health mirroring systemic health was innovative for it's time, and has now become standard philosophy in both the medical and dental professions. Dr. Burket's legacy has enhanced the quality of life for millions of patients, improved dental education, and reinforced the idea of dental professionals as primary health care providers.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, 240 South 40th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
authors.forename: Eric T
authors.initials: ET
authors.lastname: Stoopler
mesh_terms: D006665:History of Dentistry; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D019242:Oral Medicine / Q000266:history*; D014481:United States