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!

Christine S.

Michelle has taken such good care of our son. We have had a great experience and know we are in great hands!

Jennifer D.

My daughter got her braces off today. Cant believe it has already been 2 years. Gonna miss all the staff. We love the results. Thank you all.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind words! We appreciate it!

Lisa W.

The staff take their time with you and are so friendly. A very positive environment for an excellent service!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind words about our staff and the environment here. We appreciate this review.

Michelle W.

We had a fantastic experience at Otto Orthodontics today for my daughter’s initial consultation with Dr. Larkin. He recommended a palate expander as part of her treatment plan to address her overcrowding during phase 1, which I really appreciated. What stood out most was the staff—they were incredibly kind, patient, and genuinely engaged with my daughter. They took the time to listen to her (even when she was being a little silly!) and made her feel completely comfortable instead of rushed. The entire visit felt welcoming and thorough from start to finish. My only regret is not choosing Otto Orthodontics for my own treatment last year. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Michelle! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with Dr. Larkin and our team. Making our patients feel comfortable and engaged is our top priority. We appreciate your recommendation!

Brennan L.

Otto Orthodontics has been nothing but amazing! They have such a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We recommend them to anyone!

Response from the owner:Thank you for such kind words and for the recommendations. A warm and welcoming atmosphere is exactly what we aim for.

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.

Hope K.

The staff here is so incredibly patient and kind, I saw them interacting with nervous patients especially the kids that need more hand holding and they spent a lot of time making sure everyone felt comfortable and heard. They all have the best attitudes, are so positive and playful, and still incredibly professional. I have been recommending them to everyone, everywhere and will continue to do so!

Response from the owner:Hope, thank you for noticing that! Patience with nervous first timers is something our team takes real pride in, and it means a lot that it stood out to you.

Angel W.

They where very patient with us and answered all my kids questions with out hesitation and didn’t rush out. They explained prices and how everything was going to work and made me feel confident that my kids teeth are going to be taken care of not just their teeth taken of but they was going to be taken care of too by people that care

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! Our team is dedicated to providing a welcoming and professional environment for everyone. We are glad to hear our efforts make a positive difference.

Holly P.

The staff and doctors are very friendly. They have made the process of getting braces very easy. We look forward to working with them for the next few years on our child's new smile!

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

Kelly S.

My daughter (9) had her first appointment today, and she had such a great experience!! She was very nervous, but every staff member was so kind and reassuring. She can't wait to go back!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind feedback! We love being able to make orthodontic visits a little easier and more pleasant for our patients and their families.

Madeleine D.

Absolutely loved going here! My before and after is amazing! The whole staff is very sweet and guided me through the whole process perfectly!

Alicia J.

Dr Roland and all of the girls were so sweet, personable, professional, knowledgeable, and experienced! I will definitely be back for all of my ortho needs.

Response from the owner:Alicia, thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you felt welcomed and cared for by our team. We look forward to assisting you with your orthodontic needs in the future!

Nicole S.

Otto has a wonderful and caring staff that makes the long process of braces easy and enjoyable!

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

Dave B.

Dr. Otto is awesome! My daughter had a great experience here. Everyone was kind, patient, and made the whole process way less stressful than expected. Highly recommend

Response from the owner:Thank you, Dave! We're thrilled to hear your daughter had a positive experience at our office. Our team strives to create a welcoming environment, making visits enjoyable and stress-free for all our patients. Your recommendation means a lot!

Lashae W.

Very Pleasant Place and Staff ! Clean and beautiful facility. In and out. My son and I was very welcome. My son was so comfortable and respected! Guided us through the whole process

Response from the owner:Thank you, Lashae! We're thrilled to hear you and your son felt welcomed and enjoyed our clean facility. Your kind words motivate us to continue providing excellent service. We look forward to seeing you again!

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

Dr. Kirsten Karkow

otto-matic confidence in every smile