Ann Battrell Obituary: Tributing A Leader In Dental Hygiene Profession

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is deeply saddened by the unfortunate demise of CEO Ann Battrell, who departed from this world on June 7, 2023. 

Ann Battrell obituary sheds light on her untimely demise.

Her untimely departure has left a profound impact on the dental hygiene profession, where she held an esteemed position as a highly respected and admired leader. 

Throughout her tenure as CEO of the ADHA, Ann Battrell dedicated herself wholeheartedly to advancing the dental hygiene profession, championing for equitable treatment, and expanding the boundaries of dental hygienists’ practice. 

Her passing is an immense loss not only to the profession she served with distinction but also to her colleagues and beloved family.

An advocate for the Dental Hygiene profession

Ann Battrell was a forward-thinking pioneer who had dedicated her entire career to the dental hygiene profession. 

Under her leadership, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) saw significant growth, and the organization’s membership increased significantly. 

She worked tirelessly to spread awareness of the importance of preventive oral health care, which can help prevent a range of oral health problems, including cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.

Ann Battrell was a strong advocate for dental hygienists, working to extend the scope of practice for these healthcare professionals. 

She genuinely believed in fighting for clarity, trust, and respect for the dental hygiene profession.

Her contribution to the profession further pushed the United States to embrace preventive care policies that prioritize overall oral health.

Fighting for the elimination of inequities

Ann Battrell was firmly committed to the elimination of inequities that dental hygienists face in their careers. 

She fought at all levels to ensure that all dental hygienists, no matter their background, received the same access to professional development opportunities, licensing, and career advancement. 

Her commitment to tackling inequities also led to an increase in the recruitment of dental professionals in underserved areas, providing access to preventive oral healthcare for all Americans.

Extending the scope of practice of Dental Hygienists

One of the primary accomplishments of Ann Battrell as CEO of the ADHA was the extension of the practice acts of dental hygienists. 

As a result of her leadership, dental hygienists have been able to expand their roles and perform more functions previously reserved for dentists. 

The scope of practice has expanded to include diagnostic therapeutic functions, such as administering local anesthetics, as well as creating an independent practice.

Ann Battrell played a crucial leadership role in advocating for these changes.

She worked tirelessly with stakeholders across the profession, including educators, legislators, and policymakers, to ensure that dental hygienists receive the training, education, and recognition necessary to perform these new functions effectively.

Legacy of Ann Battrell in oral health

The legacy of Ann Battrell in oral health will persist for generations to come. 

Her dedication to expanding access to care, eliminating inequities, and advocating for the dental hygiene profession laid a solid foundation for future generations of dental hygienists, who will continue to build on her legacy.

Furthering the work of Ann Battrell

The work that Ann Battrell began continues today through the work of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA). 

The organization continues to promote dental hygiene, advocate for fair treatment, and extend the scope of practice for dental hygienists. 

Ann Battrell’s spirit will always be an essential component in the Organization’s founding principles, and the ADHA will continue to utilize her legacy as a guiding force into the next century of inquiry, discovery, and invention.