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!

Dr. Latoya A.

My experience with Otto Ortho. has been incredibly positive. The staff is attentive and always ready to answer any questions. My daughter is still covered under her plan, and I can confidently say that she is very comfortable with the team and the entire process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this! It's always rewarding to know that the care and attention our team puts into every visit is making a difference.

tbs993

Otto Orthodontics and its staff have been great. Dr. Carly is the best. I really had no issues the entire time that my daughter had her braces on. Thank you all so much.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the kind words! Dr. Carly and the whole Otto Orthodontics team will be happy to hear it has been such a smooth experience.

Nicole H.

Literally the best! They know what they’re doing here, and when I say so nice omg it’s like visiting family. Everyone in the office always has a smile on their faces. The office is always bright and clean. It’s so calm and peaceful at Otto orthodontics. I love it there!

Sarah H.

Otto goes above and beyond for their patients. From the initial consult to each visit- the staff is welcoming and information is readily available. They’re never too busy to take the time to answer questions. Appointment times are valued and you’re in and out quickly. Love the ability to text or talk on the phone with the staff. Thank you, Otto.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind words about our staff and for noticing the information we share along the way. We appreciate you.

Melissa

I have been in invisalign treatment with this office for 2 years now. They are always professional, kind, and on point with all of their appointments. They are thorough and make sure you don't leave without addressing the next steps. 10/10 recommend them.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Melissa! We're delighted to hear about your positive experience with our team. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to continuing to support your journey!

Kristen V.

We love Otto Orthodontics! The staff is so friendly and welcoming and we appreciate the incentives for the kiddos.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Kristen! We're thrilled to hear you love our vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff. Your support means a lot to us, and we look forward to seeing you again!

Alyse K.

Efficient and extremely well organized practice. We are just starting the process, but we were super impressed with office management and communication.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Alyse. We are glad the organization and communication made a strong first impression, and we look forward to the road ahead.

Jill M.

Our daughter just finished phase one of Orthodontic work and we’ve been extremely happy with the results. The staff have been wonderful too!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! Our team is dedicated to providing a respectful and professional environment, and it’s wonderful to hear that this is reflected in our service.

Tiffany K.

Everyone at Otto Orthodontics is incredibly friendly, welcoming, and professional. They took the time to explain everything thoroughly, making us feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire process. My kids actually look forward to going to their appointments, which says a lot! We highly recommend Otto Orthodontics to anyone looking for exceptional orthodontic care.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! Our team is dedicated to providing a positive and professional atmosphere for everyone. We are glad to hear that effort is noticed.

Alicia B.

Wait wasn’t super long. Everyone was super nice and easy to talk to. They all took the time to listen to all of my concerns. Ashley was very informational making sure I understood everything and that I was satisfied before I left. 10/10 would recommend and will be back!

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

Chelsea F.

Our daughter got her braces on today, and we had a fantastic experience! The office personnel were professional and kind, and I love that I was able to sit alongside my daughter during this experience. Thank you, Otto Ortho!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! Our team is dedicated to providing a welcoming and professional environment for everyone. It's wonderful to hear that this commitment shines through.

Amy A.

We have had such a wonderful experience at Otto! Every appointment was on time and each treatment was explained so well. I highly recommend Otto!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your fantastic feedback, Amy! We're thrilled to hear that your experiences were punctual and informative. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you again soon!

Kasey F.

We love Otto! Nicole has been working with my son Leo and she has been exceptional. Dr. Larkin is amazing, as well. Nicole lets my daughter, Rowan, be her little assistant and now she wants to be an Orthodontist when she grows up because of her. My kids always have a good time 😊

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

Jeanne C.

The entire staff is wonderful! The information provided about options for orthodontics was thorough. The dentist took her time explaining information and allowing time for questions; she is very personable! The facility is clean and beautiful.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Jeanne! We're thrilled that our team made such a positive impact during your visit. It's our priority to provide comprehensive information and a welcoming environment. We look forward to seeing you again!

Luwanika M.

Very comfortable environment with super friendly staff. Clear explanation of procedures and what to expect. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Luwanika, thank you! A comfortable space, a friendly team, and clear explanations of what to expect are exactly what we want every visit to feel like. We appreciate the recommendation.

Monday	8:30am – 5:00pm
Tuesday	8:30am – 5:00pm
Wednesday	8:30am – 5:00pm
Thursday	8:30am – 5:00pm
Friday	7:30am – 4:00pm