Dr. Kirsten Karkow

otto-matic confidence in every smile

Dr. Kirsten Karkow

Orthodontist

I love orthodontics. It’s a science and an art, and I’m proud to be in this field. Designing and creating gorgeous smiles is an artistic outlet for me, and I love working with all kinds of people to create their best smiles and watch their confidence grow. I also have specialized training in orthodontic care for patients with cleft lip and palate and special healthcare needs, and it’s some of the most meaningful work I do. It doesn’t matter how complex the case is. We can do this, together.

Education

Early Acceptance into Dental School
Doctor of Dental Surgery — University of Iowa
Master of Science & Certificate in Orthodontics — Marquette University
Serves on the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Team Under the Division of Plastic Surgery

Personal

I grew up in Manchester, Iowa, in a big family. My husband, Nick, and I now live in Webster Groves with our daughters, Ava and Knox, and love the community there. I love hanging out with family, exploring the STL food scene, being active, and practicing pretty much any type of art.

Experience Our

5-Star Care

Check out what patients have to say about their 5-star experience with our amazing team. We can’t wait to provide you and your family with the same quality of care!

Elizabeth Gambaro P.

My 9 year old twins are in phase one orthodontic treatment with this office and we could not be happier. The staff is so kind and accommodating, and my kids’ teeth are already looking so much straighter. Dr. Otto is so compassionate and even met me after Hours to fix a bracket on my son’s tooth that was loose before we were going on vacation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! Our team is dedicated to providing a respectful and professional environment, and it's rewarding to know that our efforts resonate with the community.

Britney F.

Three of my children have gotten braces with Otto, and I highly recommend them. Scheduling appointments has always been flexible, and the staff is amazing, friendly, and helpful. We've had a wonderful experience and are very happy with the care our family has received.

Brittany S.

Great experience here! I feel so much better after my Invisalign treatment—it’s great to have my smile back. The team is so knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback! Our team is dedicated to fostering a respectful and professional atmosphere, and it’s rewarding to know that our efforts resonate with the community.

Pam M.

I am a senior (not in school LOL!) and first time braces wearer. To say I was apprehensive is a down play. But Jana answered ALL of my questions and explained everything step by step. Then Dr Otto came in and answered even more of my questions. I was also able to set up an interest free payment plan which was perfect. When I returned to get my braces, everything went well. Such a good experience and no one made an issue of my age or my very crooked teeth. I look forward to a great smile in 1.5 years. Thank you Otto Orthodontics

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Pam. We're thrilled to hear that Jana and Dr. Otto made your experience comfortable and informative. Your journey towards a beautiful smile is truly inspiring!

Marci M.

I barely convinced my son to go to his consultation and he fought potentially getting braces. I figured it was worth a shot. The staff at Otto immediately made the experience fun and carefree. By the end of the appointment he was excited about getting braces.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! Our team is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and professional environment, and it’s rewarding to know that our efforts resonate positively.

Baleigh W.

Awesome staff, very helpful and professional! Provided all the details we needed to get treatment set up. Continued care through entire treatment process and guided each step of the way.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Baleigh! We're thrilled to hear that our team was able to assist you and provide the information you needed. We look forward to seeing you again soon!

Jessica M.

Every time we walk in we feel welcome! The girls and Dr. Larkin are great. Not only are they knowledgeable and do a great job, but they are fun and inviting. You can tell they enjoy their job!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to know you feel welcomed and enjoy the atmosphere we create. Our team truly loves what they do and appreciates your recognition of their efforts!

Tina M.

This office is amazing. Staff is so friendly and great with children. I highly recommend them to family and friends.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Tina. We appreciate your recommendation! Our team is dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere, especially for families. We look forward to serving you and your loved ones in the future!

Kristine E.

Easy to talk to and explained everything in detail. Very thorough on what was recommended and needed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Kristine! We're glad you found our explanations detailed and helpful. Providing thorough recommendations is essential to us, and we appreciate your feedback. Looking forward to seeing you again!

Sarah K.

Initial placement of both my daughter's upper braces went quick and uneventful this morning! My girls were at ease and the assistants explained everything as they went along. The orthodontist was very kind and personable to me and my daughter's. We were in and out within an hour for both!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re delighted to hear that your daughters felt at ease during their appointment and that our team provided thorough explanations. We look forward to seeing you all again!

Samantha C.

I had a wonderful experience at Otto Orthodontics. I did Invisalign because my teeth had shifted from failing to wear my retainers for a few years. Everything from the check in to check out was amazing. The Staff is so welcoming and got me back quickly at each visit. The offices are so beautiful. Dr. Otto & Dr. Larkin helped me through my Invisalign journey and I couldn’t be happier with my results. The orthodontic assistants I had each time were so thorough & walked me through every step. I am so happy with my smile now! My teeth are straight again and my bite is fixed. I will be and have been referring everyone that is in need of orthodontic care to Otto Orthodontics! Can’t thank everyone enough!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind words! We're committed to making every visit a positive one, and it's great to hear that reflected in your experience.

Chelsey M.

Otto orthodontics was fantastic. From the consultation to getting braces off. Dr. Roland is amazing and so sweet. The staff at Wentzville is always smiling and nice! Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! Our team is dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and it's wonderful to know that our efforts resonate with the community.

Courtney C.

I’ve had a fabulous experience during my first few visits. The office atmosphere is so inviting, feels luxurious & the team is really friendly. My Invisalign consultation was extremely thorough — I felt well-educated about the entire process. I especially loved being able to see a before-and-after preview of my expected results. So excited for my new smile!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Courtney, for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the inviting atmosphere and found your consultation informative. Your excitement for your new smile is contagious, and we look forward to supporting you throughout your journey!

Maggie S.

Fantastic care from every member of the staff! Such a wonderful experience for me and my child.

Natalie J.

Otto Orthodontics has been wonderful. The staff are wonderful and great with my 7 year old!

Dr. Kirsten Karkow

otto-matic confidence in every smile