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!

Jackie C.

5 star ⭐️ rating
Excellent first appointment with Dr. Otto and her staff. Looking forward to straightening my teeth out!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Jackie! We’re thrilled that your first appointment with Dr. Otto and our team went so well. Excited to help you achieve that perfect smile!

Jewel W.

I chose Otto due to their consistent 5 star ratings, and am so thankful I did. All of the staff has been phenomenal. They were clear about the process, answered any questions I had, and Ashley checks on me to see how I am doing through treatment. Absolutely amazing service. I have already recommended them to co-workers, friends, and family.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Jewel! It’s wonderful to hear that our team provided exceptional support throughout your treatment. We appreciate your referrals and look forward to continuing to help you and your loved ones achieve beautiful smiles!

Conner L.

This place is so amazing! Everyone there is so nice and super fast at what they do! If it was possible I would give them 10 stars instead of just 5. I had an appointment on 5/12/25 with Kylie and she’s amazing at what she does!

Response from the owner:We truly appreciate your wonderful feedback! It's fantastic to hear that you had a great experience with Kylie and our team. Your support motivates us to keep delivering exceptional service. Thank you!

N C.

We had a great experience at Otto Orthodontics! The whole staff is so friendly and bubbly! Highly recommend!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback, N! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your experience with our friendly team. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to welcoming you back!

Kimber E.

Took me a long time to pick a place for my daughter's orthodontist work. And Im so glad I picked this place. They are so nice and so easy to deal with making appts and changing appts. And they are efficient and I love that the appts dont take forever.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you found our team friendly and accommodating. Efficiency is important to us, and we're glad your experience reflected that. We appreciate your trust!

Summer F.

Everyone there was so friendly and never made me feel bad or uncomfortable about how bad my teeth are and went over lots of options for my treatment and were very understanding and accepting was just overall amazing definitely made me feel very comfortable

Kevin D.

My daughter goes there and it’s always been friendly, a short wait, I like the little things about the office that makes it their own. Not just another boring medical office.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted that your daughter enjoys her visits and appreciates the unique touches we offer. Creating a friendly environment is our priority. We look forward to welcoming you both again soon!

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!

Blake P.

I enjoyed my experience at Otto orthodontics today. Dr. Otto explained everything very well and Jeanna was very thorough going over treatment. Highly recommend.

Stephanie K.

What a great experience! From the initial visit and them explaining the plan and then to my placement was amazing! Nichole was awesome she explained step by step what the process was and I was in and out within an hour on my lunch break!! Looking forward to the end results!!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Stephanie! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with Nichole and the efficient process. Your excitement for the results motivates us, and we look forward to seeing your smile soon!

Corey C.

Nikki was very kind, outgoing and helpful. I feel like she definitely is an asset to the team and very welcoming with every single experience that you have.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experiences with Nikki. Her welcoming and supportive nature truly makes a difference for everyone. We appreciate your feedback and support!

Gina S.

Dr. Larkin is the best! His attention to detail is unmatched. He focuses on dental health and beauty. The staff is also so nice and fun!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Gina! We're thrilled you found Dr. Larkin's attention to detail and our team's friendliness exceptional. Your smile is our priority, and we appreciate your kind words!

April K.

This place never disappoints. They are so kind and gentle with you; you can’t help but feel comfortable here. I highly recommend them.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that our team's kindness and gentle approach made you feel comfortable. Your recommendation means a lot to us!

Evan G.

Amazing orthodontic place I always would recommend this orthodontic for anything Jana is the best person there she gives you all the information and is super helpful

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you find our practice amazing and that Jana provided you with exceptional service. We appreciate your recommendations and look forward to seeing you again!

Susan S.

Highly recommend! Everyone was super friendly, my appointment started exactly on time, and the treatment plan was clearly outlined. Great experience!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your fantastic review, Susan! We're delighted to hear that our team provided a welcoming atmosphere and that your appointment was timely. Your great experience is our top priority!

Dr. Kirsten Karkow

otto-matic confidence in every smile