Born and raised in Dawson Creek, Dr. Patricia Hunter began her career in dentistry by working as a dental assistant during high school. After receiving her Diploma in Dental Hygiene from the University of British Columbia in 1972, she practiced for six years in both general and periodontal dentistry.
She returned to UBC in 1978 and graduated from the Faculty of Dentistry in 1983 at the top of her class. After graduation, Dr. Hunter traveled to Tumbler Ridge with a mobile dental unit and became that community's "first" dentist. She then practiced in Moncton, New Brunswick, before returning to British Columbia in 1986.
She opened the Ackroyd Dental Center in 1987.
Prior to having children, Dr. Hunter worked as a part-time clinical instructor with the Faculty of Dentistry at UBC and with the Dental Hygiene program at VVI. She also served on various committees for the College of Dental Surgeons of BC.
Dr. Hunter enjoys all areas of dentistry. Family, cosmetic, orthodontic and reconstructive dentistry are included in her practice.
She stays current in dentistry by attending continuing education courses and being involved in study clubs. She has always had an interest in orthodontics and has expanded her knowledge of this, most recently learning how to use Invisalign (clear aligners for orthodontics).
Dr. Hunter currently serves as BC’s representative for the National Dental Examining Board of Canada and divides her time between her family, her dental practice and the College of Dental Surgeons of BC, where she works on Thursdays and Fridays as a Deputy Registrar.
She currently lives in Surrey with her veterinarian husband, two children, one standard poodle and an oriental cat. Dr. Hunter enjoys sailing, skiing and travel with her family.
In 2006 Dr. Hunter was nominated for and inducted into the American College of Dentists. This organization promotes ethics in dentistry. Only 3% of dentists are invited to join.