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. 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!

Samantha B.

Although we don't go here anymore (double insured we needed to find a place that took both our insurance's) we absolutely loved it when we did! This office is truly full of dedicated wonderful staff that go above and beyond to make what can be a scarey experience so calm and inviting! The environment they created is fun and vibrant while still having that comfy cozy feeling making it a more relaxing experience than you would think possible for an orthodontist office. My girlie's really enjoyed the artwork and neon pink signs but they really thought it was cool the staff had matching shoes!! The kiddos like to dress up the same so that was like coolest thing for them! The best thing overall though was the ease of communication between the staff, orthodontist, myself, and my daughter! They just really made an effort to make you feel heard when asking questions, answering questions, explaining, just all of it!!! 10/10 I wish every office I HAD to go to was this way, I'd never miss any appointments! 😆

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you and your daughters enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and dedicated service at our office. We appreciate your kind words and wish you all the best!

Brooklyn H.

My son is starting his Braces journey with Otto. The staff has all been very kind and patient with him 😊

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your son is starting his braces journey with us. Our team's kindness and patience are essential in making this experience positive. We look forward to supporting you both!

Sarah F.

Per the patient (9yr old) - “they were awesome! Very nice & very careful while putting on my braces”

Response from the owner:Thank you, Sarah! We're thrilled to hear your child had a positive experience with us. Our team strives to provide gentle and attentive care. We look forward to seeing you both again soon!

Lindsey E.

Scheduling was made very easy, staff were all very friendly and welcoming, office was very clean, upbeat and overall a wonderful atmosphere. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Lindsey! We're thrilled to hear you had a positive experience with our team. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to seeing you again at Otto Orthodontics!

Anne M.

Our experience was excellent! My daughter is only 6 and they made her feel right at home!

Response from the owner:We appreciate you taking the time to leave us feedback on your experience. We work very hard every day to exceed our patients’ expectations!

Megan F.

We have had an awesome experience here so far! The orthodontist was so informative and helped explain the plan so clearly for my son’s treatment. Everyone was awesome to work with!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Megan! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience. Our team is dedicated to providing clear communication and exceptional care. We look forward to continuing your son's treatment journey!

Jessica M.

Dr. Otto is the best! She is so knowledgeable and really takes time to walk you through all of the options and answer any questions! The staff’s genuine friendliness and warmth helps to make the entire experience a pleasant one! We have been so pleased with Otto Ortho!

Response from the owner:Thank you Jessica!

B. P.

I've been to the most dangerous places with the military but I was never in life, nervous until I sat in a orthodontist chair. This braces install was outstanding, Dr Otto and the assistants were top tier and eased my stress...5 stars

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that Dr. Otto and our team made your experience comfortable. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your trust in us.

Kym M.

Kind and friendly staff. I so appreciated not being the only adult getting treatment here!!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Kym! We're delighted to hear you had a positive experience with our team. We strive to create a welcoming environment for all our patients. Looking forward to seeing you again!

Ashley K.

This office is so nice and clean. Nicole was very sweet and patient with my daughter! I highly recommend this office!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Ashley! We're thrilled to hear you had a positive experience with Nicole. Our team is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment for all our patients. We appreciate your recommendation!

Rebekah W.

Amazing & professional customer service! I felt so at ease with each person I spoke to. Thanks for being so helpful and explaining things in detail.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Rebekah! We're thrilled to hear you had a positive experience with our team. Your comfort and understanding are our top priorities. We look forward to seeing you again soon!

Janet B.

I had a wire that poked a little bit into my cheek. They were able to get me in and replaced the wire the same day. Kaitlyn was super nice and got me in and out really quick.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Janet! We're thrilled to hear that Kaitlyn provided you with quick and friendly service. Your comfort is our priority, and we're glad we could assist you the same day.

This was my 1st experience with an orthodontist. As an older adult I wasn't sure how I would be treated; braces are for kids after all. I was pleasantly surprised by how welcoming everyone was! The staff is so friendly and extremely knowledgeable. I highly recommend Otto Orthodontics to anyone getting braces, including adults.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Janet! We're thrilled to hear that you felt welcomed and well cared for during your visit. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to seeing you again!

Reese B.

Amazing didn’t hurt at all and made sure I was all good. Wouldn’t want to go to any other place!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Reese! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience and that you felt comfortable throughout your visit. Your trust means a lot to us, and we look forward to seeing you again!

Jonathan H.

Very friendly staff that’s always helpful and SMILING!!!! Great welcoming environment!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our friendly atmosphere and helpful staff. We look forward to welcoming you back to Otto Orthodontics soon!

Dr. Kirsten Karkow

otto-matic confidence in every smile