Dr. Kotzs career in dentistry commenced when she graduated as a Dental Hygienist from the University of Pretoria with Honors in Dental Procedures and Pharmacology. She worked with a Specialist Periodontist in her position as a Dental Hygienist for several years, acquiring an exceptional depth of knowledge in her understanding of periodontal disease. This gave her a unique foundation for her subsequent studies to become a fully qualified dentist. She graduated as a Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Pretoria in 1985 as one of the top 3 out of 64 students. She passed with distinction in:
Dr. Kotz has attended hundreds of hours of American and International dental conferences and Advanced Training Courses. Continuing Education Programs allow her and her staff to stay informed of all new developments in dentistry.
At 1st Choice Dental in Sarasota, we understand just how frightening the idea of visiting the dentist can seem, especially if you have had a bad experience in the past. Your continued comfort throughout your visit is our absolute priority.
Our patients immediately respond positively to our relaxing soft pastel beach decor, gentle compassionate atmosphere, and soothing music. Patients often report that they never even felt their teeth being numbed. Some nervous patients soon feel so comfortable that they actually fall asleep during treatment!
We believe in minimally invasive dentistry, which destroys as little as possible tooth structure, and therefore PROTECTS the integrity and vitality of each tooth. We avoid suggesting any unnecessary treatment. This makes excellent dentistry affordable to families.
Free annual cancer screenings are done as part of your examination. Regular preventive care procedures at our office promote healthy teeth and gums. The early detection of areas of concern may prevent costly invasive treatment. 'Dentistry is not expensive, neglect is!'
You will appreciate our exceptional service at reasonable fees. Our fees are kept the same for UNINSURED AND INSURED patients. Our staff are very experienced with handling insurance claims, and will make every effort to ensure that you receive your maximum benefit from your PPO insurance company. We cannot process HMO claims.
We do not support any outsourcing of dental lab work to foreign countries. We achieve the best quality work, and excellent aesthetic results and colors, because the dentist can closely collaborate with her dental technicians right here in the Sarasota area.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 33 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestJohn Doe
2 years ago
If I had to redo a life experience it would be never meeting this dentist Dr. Kotze. She was abusive and manipulative and used fear to drill into non cavity teeth. After her I was traumatized by dentists and didn't see another dentist for years. My current dentist and hygenists were all appalled by her drilling into many of my teeth none of which had cavities and told me I had been abused. Making a patient cry and feel shame so you can earn money and the client is flooded with emotion and not basing their decision on what is right for them is on another level. I can part with my money but my g given teeth were excavated and I have to live with the unfortunate memory of this dentist and the consequences it had on the teeth I was born with which the Lord gave me for life. She had no respect for me as a person and it showed. I wish I had never walked into her office and I wish the moment she had started berating me for my teeth I had right away gotten up and walked away. She caught me in a weak point and she used it to profit off of and because my teeth are damaged from her lack of respect for a person I am reminded of her years later. Don't walk but run from this dentist. There are many others who will treat you with respect and work with integrity rather than manipulating through fear.
GuyMcc91
2 years ago
Excellent, professional, honest. Dr. Kotze will not waste your time nor your money. Finally, I have a Dentist that I can trust, to provide the best care and guidance possible. Guy M.
Mary Ehlers
4 years ago
After my Dentist of 20 years referred me to several dentists, I chose Dr. Kotze'. Her office is a one stop shop where Dr. Kotze' does everything from hygiene to surgery. As an artisan, she is extremely meticulous, cautious and thorough. Her opinions and suggestions only enhance her patient's comfort and outcomes. She is the most skilled and knowledgeable dentist I have ever experienced. She is millions of light years away from the norm.Thank you Dr. Kotze' for all your time and effort. J. Scott Ehlers Our retiring Dentist recommended Dr. Kotze" and I am so very happy he did. Dr. Kotze" is the most knowledgeable and caring dentist I have ever met. Her attention to detail with your dental health goes above and beyond my expectations. From tips on brushing and flossing (all things we thought we knew since childhood) to extractions, fillings and cleanings, she is a true expert. Her gentle touch and calming ways have helped make my dental experiences much better. Her Dental Assistant is also very caring and efficient. I was sad to see our Dentist retire, but happy to be in such great care at 1st Choice Dental and Dr. Kotze'. Thank you, Mary Ehlers
Julia Goolia
4 years ago
Okay so google made me log into this email I never use to leave a review. My name is Julia. This is the best person I have seen in regards to all of my health and teeth problems. She is personal and she finds real answers. I had been to numerous doctors trying to find the source of my migraines and loss of vision in one eye. For over a year and after many hospitalizations, I was beginning to loose hope. I made an appointment for a regular cleaning because i was new to the area, and she listened and actually cared about what was going on. Her dental work was careful and better than anywhere i have ever been. She even verified my insurance would cover a mouth guard that I needed. She ended up finding the strange cause of my symptoms and even consulted with other doctors to figure it out after two visits. I was blown away. Most other doctors seemed so arrogant but she is down to earth, honest and professional. I am so happy that I can finally have an answer to my medical problems, and a dentist who can do pain free fillings and excellent personalized work!
Dora Magna
4 years ago
I just recently had 2 fillings with Dr. Kotze' and my experience was wonderful. She was very professional and kind. I would absolutely recommend
Colleen Panebianco
4 years ago
Professional but personable. Felt my visit was the best I've had in a long time. She saved my tooth from having a root canal and crown! Always know that my dental care is in good hands. Thank you...
stanley wojcik
4 years ago
After living in Florida for two decades, going from a dentist to a dentist, we have finally found the greatest dentist ever. Dr. Kotze is not only the most professional but also the most honest, carrying, kind and knowledgeable dentist we have ever experienced. We are privileged to be her patients. Dr. Kotze's office should be your first and only choice! Amazing services and professionalism! We absolutely recommend her services to all our friends and family! I can finally smile with a joy! Krystyna and Stanley
Amy Schachter
4 years ago
what a great experience. Referred to Dr. Kotze when my husband and I moved to Sarasota. From the first appointment and every appointment thereafter, have been so impressed with the professionalism, caring and attentiveness of Dr. Kotze. I have had problem teeth and gums for as long as I can remember and I feel very well taken care of here. If you are in need of first rate, professional dental care, 1st Choice Dental should be your first and only choice.
harold goldban
4 years ago
Found my Dentist in Sarasota April 24,2019 ..lost a crown and needed to have it recemented and was recommended to Dr. Kotze by a good friend who said that she was wonderful. 1st Choice Dental was a perfect choice. From my first call to get an appointment I knew I was going to have a good experience at this office. I got a next day appointment and met Dr, Kotze and staff and my crown was quickly and efficiently recemented. The office is spotless and Dr.Kotze explained everything after she carefully and intelligently went over my past medical history. I am a retired Dentist and I can honestly say that there is absolutely no reason to look any further for a charming and competent Dentist
Mary Ehlers
4 years ago
After my Dentist of 20 years referred me to several dentists, I chose Dr. Kotze'. Her office is a one stop shop where Dr. Kotze' does everything from hygiene to surgery. As an artisan, she is extremely meticulous, cautious and thorough. Her opinions and suggestions only enhance her patient's comfort and outcomes. She is the most skilled and knowledgeable dentist I have ever experienced. She is millions of light years away from the norm.Thank you Dr. Kotze' for all your time and effort. J. Scott Ehlers Our retiring Dentist recommended Dr. Kotze" and I am so very happy he did. Dr. Kotze" is the most knowledgeable and caring dentist I have ever met. Her attention to detail with your dental health goes above and beyond my expectations. From tips on brushing and flossing (all things we thought we knew since childhood) to extractions, fillings and cleanings, she is a true expert. Her gentle touch and calming ways have helped make my dental experiences much better. Her Dental Assistant is also very caring and efficient. I was sad to see our Dentist retire, but happy to be in such great care at 1st Choice Dental and Dr. Kotze'. Thank you, Mary Ehlers
Clare Speedy
5 years ago
Thank you for sorting out my skew tooth .The best aesthetic dentist I've ever been to.
Sunshiiine Vibes
5 years ago
I chipped off half my front tooth while on vacation here in Sarasota, Florida.. I was beside myself. I found Dr. Leone Kotze's office convienently located by the beach and shopping centers. She saw me as an emergency right away & within 30 minutes had miraculously transformed my front tooth as good as new with perfectly matched color. She even cleaned my teeth for me to ensure I had the most comfort under her care! I recommend her dedication to excellence & her dental knowledge. Best dentist I've ever had! highly recommended.
Bob Greenough
5 years ago
Let me start by stating, I am so elated that I have found Dr. Kotze. I received my original dentures in 2016. I was pleased with the outcome of course with some set backs. I figured, this was the life of having Dentures. Not True!!! After scheduling my appointment with Dr Kotze, my whole world changed. She examined and made several adjustments over the course of :45 minutes. My mouth and dentures, have never felt this Great since inception. She is an amazing Doctor, that listens, asks questions and is Very thorough in producing favorable results. Thank you Dr Kotze for your attention to detail and genuine concern for my oral comfort. As a side note, My wife is now seeing Dr. for her general dentistry. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED !!!
Colleen Panebianco
5 years ago
Professional but personable. Felt my visit was the best I've had in a long time. She saved my tooth from having a root canal and crown! Always know that my dental care is in good hands. Thank you...
Francis Murray
5 years ago
My husband and I have seen Dr. Kotze on various occasions and think she is a excellent dentist. Her prices are reasonable and she is very well informed on all new technologies in her field. She explain your dental needs without sounding like a sales person. For example: I needed two crowns, but she managed to save the teeth by filling them (a much cheaper option) and needless to say, I am a very happy patient. If you want a doctor that cares without ripping you off, look no further.
John Whiteleather
5 years ago
Best treatment by far. Personalized service with focus on both health and satisfaction. Had my smile redone with every detail planned and finished with perfection. The proof is there with all the compliments I get on my smile.
anthony simmons
5 years ago
Amazing service and very professional work environment. I was very comfortable especially with the Bluetooth headphones! Thank you again.
Irene von Waltsleben
5 years ago
I got recommended by a friend. I broke off a molar and didn't have much hope for this tooth. My experience was exceptional. Not only could she save my tooth, but also ... never before was I offered sunglasses for the light or head phones with beautiful music. Dr Kotze works very gentle which helps to be completely relaxed. I am very happy to recommend 1st Choice in Sarasota. I drove all the way from St Petersburg and am very happy I did.
Jackie Greenough
5 years ago
I was quite impressed with Dr. Kotze's thoroughness. Enjoyed her personality. She explained everything and made me feel quite comfortable.
Martin Galea
5 years ago
have been a patient of Dr Kotze for several years now. her honesty & integrity is why she remains my dentist and why I've recommended her to many. a cautious approach to treatment is what impressed me the most. she presents options on treatments and takes insurance coverage into consideration when planning work to be done. It is well appreciated. No hesitation in recommending Dr Kotze for your dental needs.
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