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!

Brooke T.

Nothing but amazing things, the staff is absolutely amazing!
We love our visits in for my son. Highly recommend.

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!

Missy D.

We love Otto Orthodontist everyone is great to work with and always and helpful and full of smiles!! Thanks for being great!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Missy! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoy working with our team. Your positive feedback about our smiles and support means a lot to us. Looking forward to seeing you again!

Macii P.

Everyone was so friendly which made the whole process so much smoother and less scary for my son. Would highly recommend Otto Orthodontics.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! It's great to hear that our team's friendliness made the experience easier for your son. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back!

Jordan P.

We went to Otto ortho for a second opinion. My daughter(12yrs) was so impressed by the staff and I couldn’t be happier that they matched the other quote that we will be seeing them for the next 2+ years!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Jordan! We're thrilled to hear that your daughter felt comfortable with our team and that we could provide a competitive quote. We look forward to supporting her smile journey!

Erin

The young lady was very friendly and polite. She took time to explain things very well.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Erin! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with our team. Our commitment to providing thorough explanations and friendly service is our priority. We appreciate your feedback!

Isabella M.

Love coming to ortho in Fenton!! The friendliest staff and attentive staff members!! Always a great experience!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoy visiting our team in Fenton. Our staff always strives to provide a welcoming and attentive experience. We look forward to seeing you again soon!

Rich or Lauren O.

Great staff, always super friendly, my kids love the fun energetic atmosphere, and most important my child’s cross bite and crowding have been fixed! They’re flexible and have many options for appointment times that work well for everyone. Definitely will use in the future if any more of our kids require orthodontia.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Rich or Lauren, for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted that your kids enjoy the energetic atmosphere and appreciate our flexible appointment options. It's great to hear about the positive results, and we look forward to serving your family in the future!

Sera D.

So quick! Even got us in early because we were there. They ask questions and engage with my daughter. Couldn’t be happier!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your daughter felt engaged and that we could accommodate you early. We strive to provide a welcoming atmosphere for all our families.

Nicole T.

This is our third time going with Otto and i continue to be impressed with them and recommend them to everyone. Every staff member makes you feel welcome and like they know you. Highly recommend for any orthodontic needs!!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! It’s fantastic to hear that you feel welcomed and valued during your visits. We appreciate your continued trust in our team for your orthodontic needs and look forward to serving you again.

Kelly L.

We’ve had such a great experience with Otto Orthodontics for my 14-year-old daughter. She’s been a patient since July for phase two of her braces, and the care has been consistently excellent.

The entire team is friendly, patient, and makes her feel comfortable at every visit—which is huge for a teenager. They always take the time to explain what they’re doing and what to expect next, so we both feel informed and confident in her treatment plan.

Appointments run on time, the office is clean and welcoming, and the results we’re seeing already are amazing. It’s clear they truly care about their patients and the quality of their work.

Highly recommend Otto Orthodontics to any family looking for a great orthodontist!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Kelly, for your wonderful feedback! It's fantastic to hear that your daughter feels comfortable and well-informed during her visits. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to continuing her orthodontic journey with us!

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!

Sue S.

Friendly, efficient, and thorough! I had my first appointment for Invisalign and it was a great experience.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your positive experience, Sue! We're delighted to hear that your first appointment for Invisalign was friendly, efficient, and thorough. We look forward to continuing to support your journey!

Bobbie J.

Very clean pleasant office. Treated kindly while getting all concerns addressed and questions answered. Great payment plans easy and convenient.

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!

Kyle S.

I’ve been trying to get Invisalign for a while. My regular dentist office has gave me the run around and the one ortho I met with prior gave lack luster service.

Saw an Otto Orthodontics ad online and figured I’ll give it a shot. I was able to get scheduled within 3 days of inquiring and within my first hour long consult I knew they would take care great of me.

Very easy process to begin and better payment options than the competitors. I look forward to beginning treatment in the next few weeks!

Thanks!

Response from the owner:Hi Kyle! It was great seeing you today.. we are so excited to exceed your expectations! Congratulations again on your upcoming transformation - we are thrilled to be apart of it!

Dr. Kirsten Karkow

otto-matic confidence in every smile