About Us

The history of our practice...

Dr. Peter Orr, DDS started our dental practice in 1968 in northeast Columbia on Towne Drive. Dr. Gunilla Murphy became an associate of Dr. Orr when she graduated from the UMKC School of Dentistry in 1988, and she bought the practice from Dr. Orr two years later. Dr. Orr retired in 2000, and Dr. Sally Powell joined the practice in 2001 after she graduated from the UMKC School of Dentistry. She bought the practice from Dr. Murphy in 2006, and Dr. Murphy retired in 2016 from the practice. Our current staff includes two Registered Dental Hygienists, a patient care coordinator, a financial coordinator, and two dental assistants.

Sally C. Powell, DDS, LLC moved to the Village of Cherry Hill in February 2010. We currently have four treatment rooms, separate lab and sterilization areas, digital x-ray including a panoramic x-ray, a business office and consultation area. We still have many patients who started coming to our practice in 1968 when the practice first opened.

Dr. Sally Powell, DDS

Hello, my name is Sally Powell. I have been in practice in Columbia as a general dentist since my graduation from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry in 2001. I received my undergraduate degree at the University of Missouri-Columbia, so I feel comfortable calling Columbia home. I am currently a member of the American Dental Association, the Missouri Dental Association, the Columbia Dental Society, and the Academy of General Dentistry, and Mommy Dentists in Business. These memberships allow me to remain current on all of the new developments in the field of dentistry. In keeping with that commitment, in 2013 I received recognition from the Dawson Academy and was awarded the Concept of Complete Dentistry. This award is given to members who complete 137 hours of continuing education at the Dawson Academy, a postgraduate educational and clinical research facility, dedicated to the advancement of dentistry. In 2020, I became a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. I also volunteer with Donated Dental Services which is a program for disabled adults who do not have access to dental care. Personally, I am married to Russ, and we are the proud mom of twin girls. I also attend Bible Study Fellowship and serve at my church, The Crossing. I am a member of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Network and PEO.

I am very excited to be treating patients with advanced technology that will assist us in providing the most current dental treatment available. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is affordable and meets your specific needs. I strive to make my patients as comfortable as possible, and I always have time for any questions you may have. I welcome new patients, so please call 573.474.8566 or email us to make an appointment.

Our Staff

Jessie – Patient Care Coordinator

My name is Jessie, and I am the Patient Care Coordinator. I am committed to making our patients and their families experience in our office a positive one. I joined Dr. Powell's practice in 2020. I love meeting and interacting with all of our patients, and it is an honor to welcome patients into our practice. I enjoy serving patients and their families by trying to make each appointment as pleasant as possible. To schedule an appointment please call me at 573.474.8566 or email me and I will be in touch with you.

Lea Ann – Financial Coordinator

Hello, my name is Lea Ann and I am the Financial Coordinator. I graduated from the Dental Assisting Program at State Technical in 2000 and have been in the dental field for over 20 years. I am the person to help you understand your insurance policy and file your insurance for you. If you have any insurance or billing questions I encourage you to call me at 573.474.8566 or email me. I look forward to meeting with you.

Whitney – Dental Hygienist

My name is Whitney and I am a Registered Dental Hygienist. I graduated from the University of Kansas City-School of Dentistry with a BS in Dental Hygiene in 2011. I was born and raised in Columbia, where I still reside with my husband, Jay, and our two young daughters. We enjoy spending time at Mark Twain Lake with our family in the summer and taking family walks on the trails around Columbia with our husky, Skye. When you come and visit me your comfort is very important. I will remove tartar, stain, and plaque from your teeth. Your teeth will feel smooth and polished. Part of the regular exam we do in our office includes an evaluation for periodontal disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. I will evaluate your home-care and give you advice on how to improve if needed. Please ask me any questions you may have about your oral health.

Emily – Dental Hygienist

My name is Emily and I am a Registered Dental Hygienist. I graduated from Missouri Southern State University in 2021 with my Bachelor of Science in Health Science - Dental Hygiene, Associates in Dental Hygiene and Minor in Biology. I grew up in Buffalo, Missouri. My younger sister and I live together in Columbia, as she is attending Mizzou! My mission is to provide my patients with the highest quality care and with the education they need to improve their oral and systemic health. I am honored to have been selected as the 2021 Missouri Dental Hygienists’ Association Outstanding Dental Hygiene Student. I believe clarity and sincerity is the bridge to earning patients’ trust, allowing them to feel comfortable throughout their visit, thus opening the door to a lifetime of oral health. I believe everyone deserves a smile they can be confident in!

Claira Harmon – Dental Assistant

My name is Claira Harmon. I am a Certified Dental Assistant with my State of Missouri Expanded Functions Certification. I grew up in Minnesota where I graduated from the dental assisting program at Dakota County Technical College in 2014.I have been married to my husband, Kaleb, since August 2019. We live in Hallsville and have 3 dogs; Jolie, Belle and Poppy. We LOVE all Mexican food and are BIG Kansas City Chiefs and Mizzou football fans! We also enjoy trail riding on our side-by-side UTV. When you come for your visit, I assist Dr. Powell with restorative procedures and help you feel comfortable throughout your appointment. I can’t wait to meet you!

Debbie – Dental Assistant

My name is Debbie Murray. I am married and have 2 children and a dog. I am originally from Texas where I attended Baylor University. I enjoy a lot of outdoor sports like tennis, biking, scuba diving, water and snow skiing.

Since 2012 I have worked part-time for Dr. Powell as an expanded functions dental assistant. I enjoy meeting each patient and helping assist Dr. Powell as she cares for each patient. This job keeps you on your toes and is rewarding as you see the results and smiles on patients faces.