Meet the Team
Children's Dental Team in Wilmington, NC
The entire Wilmington Kids Dentist team is passionate about ensuring your child has a great trip to the dentist. Everyone from the doctors to the administrative team works hard to make sure you and your child leave with a great big smile.
Nothing would make our entire team happier than to show you why we were voted a 2021 Family Favorite by Wilmington Parent Magazine.
Conner Vinikoor, DDS
Conner Vinikoor, DDS - Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Conner Vinikoor (AKA Doctor Connor, as his patients call him) is a native Arizonan, and attended the University of Arizona in Tucson, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology in 2010.
He always knew he wanted to be a doctor, but while at UA, he decided he wanted to be a dentist and went to dental school at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Later, he realized how much he liked working with kids and the lifelong impact he could have on their smiles.
He went on to specialize in pediatric dentistry doing his residency at the prestigious University of Illinois at Chicago.
Dr. Conner is an active member of many of the leading dental organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Favorite Podcast: He loves listening to sports podcasts, but his favorite is the hilarious Pardon My Take.
Favorite Place: Any swimming pool. Especially in the summer!
Best Dental Tip: Carry flossers around in the car. Flossing after meals is a great way to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Claudia Garcia Sanchez, DDS
Claudia Garcia Sanchez, DDS - Dentist
Dr. Claudia Garcia Sanchez was born and raised in Pinar del Rio, Cuba, and embarked on her journey in dentistry after earning a degree in chemistry from the University of Kansas. Her passion for making a positive impact on others led her to the UMKC School of Dentistry, where she graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. As a proud member of the American Dental Association, she remains committed to staying at the forefront of pediatric dentistry advancements.
Dr. Garcia Sanchez, the eldest of three girls, along with her family, made the United States their home a decade ago. Their household is enriched by the presence of two beloved cats, Pistachio and Kansas. Driven by her own transformative experience with braces at the age of 13, she has dedicated her career to providing exceptional and compassionate care to children.
Working with kids brings Dr. Garcia Sanchez immense joy. She believes in creating a positive and educational environment during dental visits, ensuring that children not only receive quality care but also enjoy the experience. This commitment allows her to continually learn and expand her creativity, leaving a lasting impact on the oral health of future generations.
Beyond the dental office, Dr. Garcia Sanchez enjoys exploring Wilmington & embracing the vibrant community. With her caring approach, genuine enthusiasm for children's dentistry, and commitment to providing top-notch care, Dr. Claudia Garcia Sanchez looks forward to being an integral part of your child's oral health journey at Wilmington Kids Dentist.
Hobbies: When not at the office, she loves to hangout with family & friends, and enjoys refinishing furniture & photography
Favorite TV Show: She loves the 90's classic TV show, Friends
Favorite Food: Her favorite food is pasta
Jenna Freda, DDS
Jenna Freda, DDS - Dentist
Dr. Jenna Freda, a native of New Jersey, brings warmth, expertise, and a passion for pediatric dentistry to our practice. Her journey in the world of dentistry began at North Carolina State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Driven by a desire to make a positive impact on children's dental health, she pursued her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) at New York University.
Dedicated to staying at the forefront of her field, Dr. Freda is an esteemed member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Her commitment to excellence led her to further specialization, and she obtained an Advanced Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry at the NYU College of Dentistry.
Dr. Freda's genuine love for working with children is the cornerstone of her dental philosophy. She understands the importance of creating a positive and enjoyable experience for young patients, inspiring a lifelong commitment to oral health.
Driven by her passion for pediatric dentistry, she ensures that every visit is marked by laughter and a sense of comfort. She firmly believes that there's never a dull moment when working with kids and is dedicated to fostering a sense of joy and ease during each dental visit.
Hobbies: When not at the office, she loves reading, going to the beach, and NC State football
Dental Tip: Be sure to wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports
Newlyweds: Dr. Freda embarked on a new chapter in her life marrying her husband in July 2023 and moving to North Carolina from NYC
Kunal Patel, DDS
Kunal Patel, DDS - Anesthesiologist
Dr. Kunal Patel is a dedicated dentist who hails from Mississauga, ON, and has built his career on the principles of integrity, skill, and a genuine commitment to community well-being. Dr. Patel's journey in dentistry began at the University of Waterloo, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree at the prestigious NYU College of Dentistry, a renowned institution recognized for producing top-tier dental professionals.
Family holds a special place in Dr. Patel's heart, and he is grateful for the unwavering support of his mom, dad, and sister. Their encouragement has played a pivotal role in shaping his values and approach to dentistry.
Driven by a deep sense of community responsibility, Dr. Patel chose dentistry as his calling to make a positive impact on the lives of those around him. His genuine desire to help others is reflected in every aspect of his practice, from his chairside manner to his commitment to providing accessible dental care.
Dr. Patel has a particular fondness for working with children, recognizing the importance of instilling good oral hygiene habits from an early age. He believes in creating a positive and comfortable environment for young patients, ensuring that their dental experiences are both enjoyable and educational. By working closely with parents, Dr. Patel strives to empower families to prioritize and maintain optimal oral health.
Cayce Wallace, DMD
Cayce Wallace, DMD - Dentist
Dr. Cayce Wallace is a board-certified pediatric dentist and has been setting the highest standards in kids dentistry since 2010. Born and raised in Mississippi, Dr. Wallace attended Mississippi College where he played baseball and received a B.S. degree in Medical Biology.
He attended Dental School at the University of Mississippi and completed specialty training at the Batson’s Children’s Hospital in Jackson, MS. Dr. Wallace was named Chief Resident and became a diplomate for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Wallace has focused on developing his skills to combine exceptional dentistry in a fun and relaxed environment. He believes that good oral health requires educating the child and parent at an early age. He brings passion and energy to provide the kids of the community the service they deserve.
Dr. Wallace is an active member of many of the leading dental organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association and the Arizona Dental Association.
Favorite Band: Dr. Wallace has a passion for music. He loves listening to music and going to live shows. His favorite band to jam to is The Grateful Dead.
Favorite Place to Travel: Dr. Wallace is a kid at heart. He loves to travel to Disneyland. He says it is for the kids, but we are not sure it isn’t really for him.
Favorite Outdoor Activity: A few years ago Dr. Wallace was invited to a friendly game of pickleball. Now he is hooked and plays every chance he gets.