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!

Josh W.

Otto is top notch. Brooke installed my brackets for my Invisalign today and did an incredible job. I typically hate sitting still for too long but she did a great job walking me through everything and finished before I knew it. Dr. Otto also rocks. Knows her stuff but most importantly she explains it well. All around great experience from every team member!

Linda D.

Consultation and went with the plan. Staff and Dr were friendly and answered all my many questions!

Brennan L.

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

Kristen S.

All of the staff is extremely friendly and helpful. They are always going above and beyond to make my kids feel comfortable. I love that they actually take time to explain what they’re going to do to not only my self but they make sure my kid knows what’s going on. The office is decorated so cute and Non-intimidating to kiddos.

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 😊

Rae N.

5 months in and couldn’t be more impressed with my progress. Every visit is so quick and easy and everyone is always so nice.

Courtney C.

I’ve had a fabulous experience during my first few visits. The office atmosphere is so inviting, feels luxurious & the team is really friendly. My Invisalign consultation was extremely thorough — I felt well-educated about the entire process. I especially loved being able to see a before-and-after preview of my expected results. So excited for my new smile!

Amanda W.

Highly recommend! My main office was the St. Peter’s location but I’ve also been to the Wentzville location. Both locations are clean, spacious and convenient. The staff was always positive and so sweet. They’re more affordable than other places in the area. They have a texting line which is super convenient. They also offer a retainer for life program where you can get a replacement retainer at no extra cost. I took two of my kids somewhere else for their braces and that place was great too but it was pretty pricey. This rating comes from my ortho treatment that I just finished up. When it comes time for our youngest to start his braces treatment, he will be coming here as well.

Jesse

Great experience all around. I visited many orthodontists and compared everything before making my decision, and Otto was easily the best choice: Great price for my treatment, best staff, best service. Can't say enough about them.

Justin W.

Staff and doctor were friendly and straightforward. They were upfront with the price and their recommendations. They got us in and out quickly but we did not feel rushed.

Amber R.

Adilyn got her lower Braces today!!🤩😃 Just in time for school to start. Thank you Nichole for your super great work with Adilyn! 👏🏻 Ok, this is so old. I am just adding to this post as the newest update is Adilyn is doing great! Kylie is Amazing!! Smile is looking great! Thank you Kylie & Dr. Larkin!!! Thank you again!!! Amazing visit 🤩🤗 What’s up! I don’t know if this has actually posted in the past. But… Today 5/21/26 Adilyn is doing GREAT!! Thank you so much Kylie & Dr. Larkin!

Shelby D.

Starting the orthodontic process with our son felt a little overwhelming and the team at Otto was patient, transparent, and informative as we navigated it. Our son was comfortable the whole time and had all of his questions answered too. I’m glad this is where we chose to go!

Maggie B.

Dr Karkow and team were excellent during my Invisalign journey!! They really made sure I was happy with my results and were all very friendly. Would highly recommend.

Linda C.

My son had his first consultation for braces and everyone who assisted in the appointment was great! Everything was clearly explained and we can’t wait to start our braces journey soon!

Luwanika M.

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

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