Dr. Patty Merkley, known as “Dr. Patty” by the kiddos she treats, began her career in helping others in the field of nursing. She found immediate joy and fulfillment in the ability to put people at ease in moments of stress. She quickly realized that this gift would be maximized in the area of dentistry. Being a big kid herself, she was drawn to the opportunity to laugh and play while utilizing her gift of calmly caring for little ones at the same time! Since discovering this she feels like she never “goes to work”, instead she sees each day as a chance to meet new kids, treat them and educate them through playful distraction and many laughs!

Professionally, she excelled in both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, graduating at the top of her class. Post-graduation, Dr. Patty was accepted into the prestigious Oregon Health and Sciences University-Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Pediatric Dental Residency program. During her residency, Dr. Patty developed and headed a research project studying the area of dental treatment under general anesthesia. This project continued after she graduated from the program, noting the value of the results and the impact it has on providing the best patient care. Dr. Patty also served as Chief Resident working alongside some of the leading pediatric dental and medical doctors, obtaining the knowledge passed on by their experience.