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!

Terry H.

I found Otto Orthodontics just last week. Their website and the team that answers phone calls say that they want to get to know you and truly care about their patients. I was shocked to find out that this is NOT just a slogan at Otto. They really mean it! My partner had a situation that seemed to be impossible for him to get the treatment he needed. The team at Otto was able to find a solution and make his treatment possible! The technology they have is awesome, you don't even need to have impressions with the yucky stuff everyone chokes on, it is like a 5 second laser instead. Incredible. I just can't thank everyone at Otto enough for their genuine care for folks. They deserve more than 5 stars for sure!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Terry! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience and glad our team could provide the care and innovative solutions you needed. Your kind words inspire us to keep delivering exceptional service!

Christina G.

My daughters and step daughters go to Otto ortho for their ortho work! Such a pleaser to go into the office, my kids love it!! AJ helped me and was amazing regarding our account! I also work in a dental office and we ONLY refer to Otto orthodontics! Truly a one in a million experience!!! Everyone is always so nice and welcoming!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that your daughters enjoy their visits and that AJ provided exceptional service. We appreciate your referrals and look forward to continuing to serve your family!

S M.

We are so excited for this journey! Otto Orthodontics has made everything so smooth and has such excellent knowledge! All of the Staff has been FANTASTIC!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, S! We're thrilled to hear you're excited about your journey with us. Our team strives to provide excellent service, and your feedback truly motivates us. Looking forward to seeing you soon!

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!

Page B.

My son is a new patient at Otto. Their staff is always super friendly, clean office, and smooth visits.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your son's visits have been positive and that our team has made a great impression. We look forward to continuing to provide excellent care!

Donielle W.

I had my top braces put on today and had a great experience from start to finish. My appointment was right on time, which I really appreciated. The team explained everything clearly and made sure I understood what to expect during and after the process. They also gave great advice on how to properly care for my braces moving forward. Overall, very professional, efficient, and informative—highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Donielle! We’re thrilled to hear about your positive experience with our team during your appointment. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your recommendation. Welcome to your orthodontic journey!

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!

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!

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!

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!

Nicholas R.

Always a great experience! Friendly staff and they are able to get you in and out for your appointment pretty quick.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Nicholas! We’re thrilled to hear you had a wonderful experience with our team. Quick appointments and friendly service are our top priorities. We look forward to seeing you again soon!

Becca D.

The are not just highly educated and the best orthodontics in saint louis but they have heart and are kind … would recommend them over and over again to everyone

Response from the owner:Thank you, Becca! Your kind words about our team's expertise and compassion mean a lot to us. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to continuing to provide excellent care.

Chelsea H.

My braces were applied back in August and I had my first adjustment visit a few days ago. I’m so happy that I was referred to this orthodontic practice. My experiences from my initial consultation to the recent appointment have been absolutely superb. Everything was explained to me and any questions or concerns that I have had were answered. All of the ladies from the phone line to office staff are amazing! They return calls within a reasonable time, also a messaging line is available that you can text instead of a phone call. As someone who has had horrible experiences with dental offices as an adult, walking into this office I know that my teeth are in good hands. The excellent staff helps take some of the anxiety out of the visits and any concerns or issues that have arisen since the application of the braces. The financing process was easy with a reasonable payment plan over the course of 18months. There is a portal that you can make extra payments or simply keep track of your account. I recommend Otto Orthodontics to anyone considering braces for themselves or their kids. If google had more than 5 stars I’d give them all available stars. I’m looking forward to the smile that I’ll have at the end.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Chelsea! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experiences with our team. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities. We look forward to seeing your beautiful smile!

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!

Alana H.

We love this office! Everyone is kind and professional. My daughter absolutely (10)loves going into the office. During the consultation, they explained the whole process to her which put her mind at ease.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Alana! We're thrilled to hear that you and your daughter enjoy our office. Our team is dedicated to making every visit comfortable and informative. We look forward to seeing you both again soon!

Dr. Kirsten Karkow

otto-matic confidence in every smile