Our team is committed to building a professional relationship that results in a lifetime of optimal dental health, comfort and appearance. They pride themselves on integrity and providing the highest quality dentistry in a pleasant environment. They are continuously furthering their education and professional development.
Dr. Della Torre is a 1981 graduate of Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery in New York City. She completed her post-graduate study in general dentistry at Mount Sinai Hospital, also in New York City. Dr. Della Torre has had many diverse experiences as a dentist prior to founding ADT Dental in 1989. She was a Clinical Instructor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry from 1986-1992. She currently serves as an Ex-Officio Board member for Ready Set Smile, a non-profit founded in 2013 by Dr. Della Tore and Dr. Alice Ottavi to bring dental services to under-served children through school-based programs. In 2019 Dr. Della Torre was awarded the AARP Purpose Prize honoring her founding and work with Ready Set Smile. This AARP prize is the only national award that celebrates people age 50-plus who use their knowledge and life experience to solve tough social problems. Dr. Della Torre served on the Department of Human Services Dental Services Advisory Committee from 2010-2015. Additionally, Dr. Della Torre has served on several non-profit boards including Apple Tree Dental (2008-2014), serving the dental needs of families facing barriers to care, and Patchwork Quilt (2010-2014), an after-school program closing the gap for African American children on Minneapolis Northside. Dr. Della Torre resides in southwest Minneapolis with her husband, Dr. Spencer Kubo. They have three children and six grandchildren.
Dr. Alice Ottavi is a 1985 graduate of the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. She completed post-graduate study in general dentistry at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis. Dr. Ottavi has extensive clinical experience in the practice of comprehensive restorative dentistry. She is dedicated to excellence and professional development through participation in continuing education courses. Dr. Ottavi belongs to several dental study clubs with special emphasis in implants, cosmetic dentistry, and clear aligner braces. She joined ADT Dental in 1997 and enjoys the long-term relationships with her patients as well as providing for their dental needs. Dr. Ottavi serves on the board of directors for Ready Set Smile: a non-profit she co-founded with Dr. Adele Della Torre to bring dental services to underserved Minneapolis children through school-based programs. Additionally, Dr. Ottavis community service includes providing dental care for Project Homeless Connect and Give Kids A Smile. Outside the office Dr. Ottavi enjoys spending time with her partner, two grown daughters, her dog Chester, and studying classical piano at the MacPhail Center for Music.
Dr. Lesley Knox joined ADT Dental as an associate in 2009. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Northwestern University, Chicago in 1988. After graduation from dental school, she completed a general practice dental residency at the University of Minnesota in 1989. She has experienced a diverse range of practice setting, but is happiest working in a small group practice. Dr. Knox provides quality general and cosmetic dentistry with a special interest in implants, root canals and extractions. Dr. Knox places a strong emphasis on treating fearful dental patients. She can make the most apprehensive patient relaxed and comfortable. When Dr. Knox is away from the office, she enjoys biking, cross country skiing and snow-shoeing with her family. She and her husband, Mark, have five children, and a new grandson in 2020.
Dr. DeAnna Miller received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2013. She has worked in a wide range of practice settings, from small neighborhood offices to large group practices. Her favorite places to work are where she can be on a team with other dentists. Dr. Miller commissioned in the Minnesota Army National Guard in 2009 as a second lieutenant. She currently holds the rank of major and recently returned from a deployment to Kuwait. She belongs to the 204th Medical Company Area Support, where she is the senior dentist. Dr. Miller joined ADT Dental in 2021. She has a special interest in extractions and helping denture patients get their smile back. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, practicing bass guitar being crafty, and spending time with her two teenage sons. She lives in Minneapolis with her boys and their two dogs, Harry and Oreo.
Marilynn Brotzel joined ADT Dental in 1997. She enjoyed greeting our patients at the front desk for over 15 years. In 2012, Marilynn was promoted to the office manager position. This challenge has been a wonderful, growing experience for her. Marilynn resides in Apple Valley with her husband and two children. Her free time is spent attending her childrens activities, gardening and reading.
Verny graduated from the University of Minnesota, School of Dentistry, with a Master in Dental Therapy. Prior to becoming a licensed dental therapist, Verny worked for the U.S. Army, serving as both a dental assistant and dental hygienist for 8 years. She was able to provide dental care to diverse populations, including various communities during a deployment to Iraq and a humanitarian mission in Nicaragua. Her experience with underserved populations motivated her to obtain a Master in Public Health. As a unique addition to the dental team, Verny hopes to increase access to oral health care. She is currently involved with the community through Ready Set Smile, a non-profit dental program founded by ADT Dental. In her spare time, Verny enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as traveling to popular tourist attractions. She has been to 25 of the 50 U.S. states, and has traveled internationally to 15 different countries.
Annalise graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry with a Master in Dental Therapy and Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. Prior to becoming a licensed dental therapist and hygienist, Annalise completed four years of undergraduate work at The College of Saint Benedict and Saint Johns University and received a degree in liberal arts and communication. Annalise has a passion for helping others and became interested in pursuing a career in dentistry when she started working in a dental lab as an office manager. She is currently involved with the community through Ready Set Smile, a non-profit dental program founded by ADT Dental. Outside the office Annalise appreciates spending time with family and friends. She and her fianc are enjoying their new home in Cottage Grove and plan to be married in 2021.