Meet our Team

Terri

Dental Assistant
I was born in Louisiana, but have been in the area since third grade. My husband and I have lived here for 36 years, which is how long I have been in the dental field — 32 years now. We have two wonderful daughters and one son. We enjoy spending time with them and our grandchildren. You can also find us in the woods during hunting season.

Nikkee

Treatment Coordinator
I live in Checotah with my husband, Jimmy, and our two children. I have been in the dental field for 19 years and truly enjoy what I do. Outside of work, I stay busy with my daughter in college and my son playing every sport he can. I serve in Kidz Klub at New Life Church, where I attend. In my free time, you can usually find us at the beach or in the mountains. We love to travel.

Becky Starkey

Hygiene Coordinator
I was born and raised in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. I moved to Okmulgee when I was 20 years old. I have been in dentistry for 36 years. I have been married to my best friend for 22 years and we both work in the dental field. We have two beautiful daughters and two beautiful grandchildren. Also, we are members of the Refuge Church.

My hobbies include fishing and hanging out with my family. Fun fact: I started my dental career in this office when I was 20 years old.

Ciera

Dental Assistant
I graduated from Green Country Technology Center in August 2020, where I studied dental assisting. Shortly after completing my clinicals at Dr. Ruleford's office, I was offered a full-time position. I have truly loved every minute of working in the dental field. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, as well as being out on the lake.

Sherry

Accounts Receivable Coordinator
My family and I live in Hulbert, although I am originally from Tulsa. I've been in the dental field for 16 years. I currently work for Dr. Ruleford from home. My husband and I have been married 19 years, we have a 14-year-old daughter and we are members of Crossroads Church in Wagoner. When I'm not at home, I'm either running my daughter around to her activities, antiquing, going to church, or spending time with friends and family. When we can, we also love traveling to Branson, Colorado, or to the beach.

Tia

Dental Assistant
I'm originally from Arcadia, Oklahoma. After 4 years of working in construction, traveling and working on Wind Turbines I moved to Okmulgee where I met my husband and began my career in the dental industry in 2024. Smiling is important when spreading joy; I take pleasure in knowing our patients leave our office excited to spread their joy! I enjoy any and all activity outdoors in my spare time!

Kellie

Dental Hygienist
I was raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I am a wife and mom of five children at home, along with two grown children. I currently reside in Tulsa with my husband, Ricardo, and our five children. I graduated from Tulsa Community College Dental Hygiene School in 2003 and am a Registered Dental Hygienist with 23 years of experience. I worked alongside my dad in his practice until he retired in 2020. I also worked in a pediatric office with Dr. Ruleford years ago and about five years ago, I answered a fill-in position not knowing it was Dr. Ruleford's private practice. I've been commuting to Okmulgee ever since. I enjoy observing the Sabbath on Saturdays, reading my Bible with my family, going on adventures around Oklahoma, traveling to visit my husband's family, and finding treasures at garage sales with my best friend — my husband.

Courtney

Insurance Verification Coordinator
I was born and raised in Okmulgee. I have worked in the dental field for 12 years and truly enjoy what I do. I currently live in Henryetta with my family. I am blessed with six children and two granddaughters. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and enjoying the outdoors.