Our Doctors

Steve Kristo, D.D.S., M.S.

Dr. Steve Kristo was born and raised in Eau Claire, WI. Dr. Steve graduated from the Minnesota School of Dentistry with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, followed by a Master of Science degree and a specialty Certificate in Orthodontics in 1988. He then joined his father, Andrew Kristo, in the family practice, which was established in 1959. Dr. Steve Kristo is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Wisconsin Society of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, and Wisconsin Dental Association.

Dr. Steve enjoys spending time trying to keep up with his three children, Meegan, Grace, and Griffin. When he isn’t bonding brackets and bending wires you may find him golfing, traveling, relaxing with friends and family at the lake, and cheering on his favorite NFL football team (and any team who is playing the Vikings). GO PACK!

Luke Carlson, D.D.S., M.S.

Dr. Luke is a native of Stillwater, MN.  He received his B.A. with a major in Biology and concentration in Biomedical Studies from Saint Olaf College in Northfield, MN.  He earned his D.D.S. from the University of Minnesota, graduating first in his class.  He was further distinguished by acceptance into the prestigious Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity and Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Society.  Dr. Luke earned his M.S. and specialty Certificate in Orthodontics from the University of Minnesota.

In Dr. Luke's free time, he can often be found enjoying the outdoors.  He grew up vacationing at the family cabin in the Hayward Lakes area and taking advantage of the many great outdoor recreational activities in Wisconsin.  His interests include hunting with his dad and brothers, hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing and learning to play golf with Dr. Kirstin.  Dr. Luke enjoys running and has completed several marathons.

Kirstin Carlson, D.D.S., M.S.


Dr. Kirstin grew up in Two Harbors, MN.  Her father is a dentist and mother is a hygienist, thus, it was a natural decision to pursue a career in the dental field.  She attended Saint Olaf College and earned her B.A. with a major in Biology and a concentration in Biomedical Studies.  She received her D.D.S. from the University of Minnesota, graduating second in her dental class.  She was further distinguished by acceptance into the prestigious Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity and Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Society.  Dr. Kirstin completed her studies at Marquette University and received her specialty Certificate in Orthodontics and M.S.

Dr. Kirstin enjoys spending time with family and friends.  Her hobbies include being outdoors while hiking, fishing, kayaking, boating, golfing, traveling, skiing, and snowshoeing.  She also enjoys searching for agates on the North Shore of Lake Superior.

Drs. Luke and Kirstin are members of the American Association of Orthodontists, Wisconsin Society of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, and Wisconsin Dental Association.  They are also members of the West Central Wisconsin Study club and Northwest District Dental Society. 


The doctors at Kristo Orthodontics look forward to incorporating their diverse specialty training in the most recent advancements in orthodontics to further optimize patient care in the Chippewa Valley.  Their goal is to help patients develop healthy, attractive smiles, while providing a positive and enjoyable orthodontic experience.  They believe that a healthy life and self-esteem can be enhanced through the creation of a beautiful smile.