With over 25 years of experience, First City Dental treats every patient like family, offering personalized care and comprehensive dental services in a warm, welcoming environment.
At First City Dental, we believe a healthy smile starts with trust and comfort. Since 1998, our team has been helping families in St. Augustine, FL feel confident about their dental care. From preventive treatments to advanced procedures, we focus on gentle techniques and personalized service that make every visit feel easy and as stress-free as possible. Our office was founded with one simple goal: to create a place that feels like we’re hanging out with friends, all while providing comfortable, lasting dental care. Whether it’s your first visit or your yearly check-up, you’ll always be treated with kindness, clarity, and respect.
Founder, General Dentist
Since founding First City Dental in 1998, Dr. Painter has anchored his practice on the belief that genuine connection and comfortable care are the keys to a confident, lasting smile. He is passionately dedicated to dentistry and treats every patient like family, living by the motto he instilled in the practice: making the world a better place, one smile at a time! This philosophy ensures that every patient comes in as a stranger and leaves as a friend.
Education and Excellence
Dr. Painter’s commitment to providing lasting dental solutions is built upon a strong educational foundation. He earned his undergraduate degree from California State University in Los Angeles before obtaining his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the Medical College of Virginia. Furthering his expertise and embodying the spirit of continuous growth, he completed a rigorous hospital residency at the University of Florida (Go Gators!), ensuring precision and confidence in every procedure.
A New Chapter of Growth
Associate Dentist
A Passion for Excellence and a Local Connection
Dr. Lainey Davis is delighted to join the First City Dental family, bringing both a deep commitment to gentle, personalized dentistry and an infectious enthusiasm. Having grown up frequently visiting the beautiful beaches of St. Augustine, she is excited to now call this area home and serve the community she loves. Dr. Davis is passionate about creating a comfortable and positive experience for every patient, building the kind of trusting relationship where you always feel at ease.
A dedicated “Double Gator,” Dr. Davis is a testament to academic excellence. She graduated from the University of Florida (UF) undergrad with Honors and a degree in Nutritional Sciences before earning her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the UF College of Dentistry. Her commitment to precision was recognized when she received the prestigious Award for Excellence in Operative Dentistry from the Academy of General Dentistry. This strong foundation ensures she is equipped to provide the most advanced and lasting solutions in dental care.
Life Outside the Practice
Dr. Davis believes in an active and balanced life! When she’s not transforming smiles, she’s focused on being active—you can find her running, enjoying CrossFit, reading, traveling, or cooking. And of course, being a lifelong alumna, she is a die-hard fan of Gator football. Her energetic, enthusiastic spirit perfectly reflects the joy and dedication she brings to the practice every day.
General Dentist
Dr. Emerald Denis Karic is a dedicated General Dentist who believes that exceptional care begins with a strong relationship. He strives to build long-lasting relationships with every patient, making sure they feel heard, respected, and completely at ease. Driven by the philosophy of continuous learning, Dr. Karic is dedicated to providing patients with the informed decisions and highest quality of care that leads to lasting oral health.
Dr. Karic earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from the University of New England in Portland, Maine. While he enjoys all facets of General Dentistry, he has a particular passion for advanced and lasting solutions, such as implant dentistry, cosmetic treatments like veneers and crowns, and restorative dentistry.. His specific interests include implant dentistry, cosmetic treatments like veneers and crowns, and restorative dentistry. Dr. Karic consistently reads literature and research, demonstrating his commitment to blending clinical expertise with a comprehensive, patient-focused approach.
Our loyal patients receive discounted routine care and special pricing on most dental procedures. The Smile So Big Savings Plan is designed to fit your lifestyle and budget. Enjoy comprehensive treatment, consistent payments, and personalized care.
$32/month or $384/year
Save $289/year!
Services Included:
$39/month or $468/year
Save $245/year!
Services Included:
$69/month or $828/year
Save $455/year!
Services Included: