When you’re putting your smile in someone else’s hands, it helps to know a little more about who’s behind the chair. Kottemann Orthodontics in Chaska is home to Dr. Kraig Kottemann, Dr. Angela Bukstein, and Dr. Alisha Holt—three doctors whose paths to orthodontics are as varied as their strengths, supported by the expertise of Dr. William Kottemann and Dr. Scott Kottemann across their other locations. From volunteering abroad to mentoring the next generation of orthodontists, their work reaches far beyond the office. Let’s pull back the curtain and get to know them a little better.
Meet Dr. William Kottemann
Before he was shaping smiles in Chaska, Dr. William “Bill” Kottemann was growing up in Iowa City, watching his father, a local orthodontist, work with patients. After attending the University of Iowa for pre-med and dental school, Dr. Bill headed north to complete his orthodontic residency and earn his Master’s at the University of Minnesota in 1978. By 1989, he was board-certified and firmly planted in the profession he knew he was meant for.
Dr. Bill is passionate about how orthodontics can lift a person’s confidence, and he’s never lost sight of how meaningful that transformation can be. When he’s not in the office, he’s often out on the lake in Orono, playing golf, or spending time with his wife and family. He’s also the chair of Hope for Uganda, a nonprofit supporting schools and a medical clinic in Northern Uganda.
Next, let’s meet the next generation of Kottemanns continuing that legacy: Dr. Kraig Kottemann.
Meet Dr. Kraig Kottemann
Dr. Kraig Kottemann brings his own twist after following in his father’s footsteps. With degrees in both Biology and Studio Art from the University of Notre Dame, his approach blends precision with creativity. After earning his dental degree from the University of Arizona and completing his orthodontic training and Master of Science at the University of Minnesota, Dr. Kraig returned home to do what he’s always known he wanted to do: help people feel good about their smiles.
Beyond the practice, Dr. Kraig gives back through programs like Dental Lifeline Network, providing care for elderly and disabled patients, and organizations like Smiles Change Lives and Give Kids a Smile. He’s also a big believer in staying on top of the latest tools in orthodontics, from new wires to laser-assisted treatments, and loves the challenge that comes with each advancement.
When he’s not with patients, you’ll likely find him golfing, on the lake, or chasing his three kids and their energetic dog, Frank. Up next: Dr. Scott Kottemann, who brings technology and teaching into the mix.
Meet Dr. Scott Kottemann
Dr. Scott Kottemann’s orthodontic journey started early, well before dental school, crafting retainers and appliances in the family lab long before he could drive. That hands-on experience grew into a full-fledged passion for innovation, leading him to study Biology at the University of Notre Dame and then dentistry at the University of Michigan, where he graduated second in his class. Today, he blends that strong academic foundation with forward-thinking care at Kottemann Orthodontics.
Dr. Scott is also a faculty member at the University of Minnesota, where he teaches clinical techniques and lectures on modern orthodontics. It’s his way of paying it forward, inspired by the mentors who shaped his own education. Whether he’s designing a treatment plan or guiding future orthodontists, he’s all in.
Outside the office, Dr. Scott enjoys photography, wake surfing in the summer, skiing in the winter, and exploring Minneapolis with his wife Camille and their daughters Quinn and Marlowe. Next, meet Dr. Alisha Holt, whose early experience as a braces patient sparked a lifelong calling.
Meet Dr. Alisha Holt
Dr. Alisha Holt knew she wanted to be an orthodontist the day she got her braces off. That moment, seeing her own smile transformed, stuck with her and sparked a career built around helping others feel that same sense of confidence. After earning her Biology degree from Gustavus Adolphus College, she went on to complete her dental education, Master’s degree, and orthodontic training at the University of Minnesota. She’s also board-certified, with a strong interest in 3D and digital technologies that help make treatment more efficient and precise.
Dr. Holt has a global outlook shaped by outreach trips to Tanzania, Guatemala, and Spain, and she continues to give back through programs like Give Kids a Smile and Smiles Change Lives. She’s known for building genuine connections with her patients: getting to know their families, cheering them on, and making orthodontic care feel welcoming at every stage.
When she’s not working, Dr. Holt is usually out walking the lakes with her dog, Copper, hiking, visiting local donut shops, or brushing up on her golf swing. Next up is Dr. Angela Bukstein, whose path to orthodontics started right here in the chair as a Kottemann Orthodontics patient.
Meet Dr. Angela Bukstein
Some smiles really do come full circle: just ask Dr. Angela Bukstein! Her own orthodontic experience as a kid at Kottemann Orthodontics planted the idea that would later shape her entire career. After earning her undergraduate degree from Jamestown College, she headed to the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, completed a general practice residency in Seattle, and spent several years as a general dentist before deciding it was time to follow her first love: orthodontics. She finished her orthodontic training at St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx, NY, and eventually found her way back home to Minnesota.
These days, you’ll find Dr. Bukstein creating confident smiles in Chaska and Maple Grove, where her blend of dental and orthodontic experience brings a fresh perspective to every appointment. When she’s not in the office, she’s traveling, scuba diving, reading, or cheering on the Vikings and Twins with her husband and two kids.
With a team that blends experience, technology, and a genuine connection to the community, Kottemann Orthodontics makes orthodontic care feel a little more personal. If you’re looking for expert care close to home, there’s a place for you here!
Your Smile Deserves a Team Like This
The Kottemann Orthodontics team knows orthodontic treatment is personal, so it makes sense to choose doctors who treat it that way. Dr. Kraig Kottemann, Dr. Angela Bukstein, and Dr. Alisha Holt bring expertise, warmth, and a deep connection to the Chaska community. With locations in Maple Grove, Chaska, Orono, and Plymouth, scheduling is easy! Book your free consultation and meet the team that makes smiles happen.