Entries by Tompkins Orthodontics

3 Possible Reasons For a Lisp

Many people think a lisp is just an odd speech quirk. But in practice, it can point to underlying dental or orthodontic issues. Some lisps clean up on their own; others may linger unless addressed. If your child—or even you—struggle with this speech pattern, it helps to know what might be causing it. 1. Tongue […]

6 Answers to Questions Your Teen May Ask About Braces

Many teens have questions about braces. Your orthodontist in Columbia and Irmo, SC, may have questions as well! If your teen has questions about braces, then the dental professionals at have answers. We’re happy to answer your teen’s questions directly, but in this article, we’ll address some of the most common questions that teens bring to […]

How Braces Affect Your Speech and How to Adapt

If you’re thinking about getting braces in Columbia, SC, you might be wondering if they will affect your speech, right? Well, don’t worry! While it’s true that braces can affect your speech, you will adapt. Also, we will give you some tips and tricks to help you adjust. And, if you don’t, we will tell […]

How Can I Tell If My Child Needs Braces?

Straight teeth and a healthy bite aren’t just beautiful features, they’re also functional. If your child has tooth crowding, crooked teeth, or a misaligned bite, they could suffer problems their entire life. Your child’s orthodontist in Columbia and Irmo, SC, can help you decide if your child needs braces. You may be able to tell that […]

Will Clear Aligners Make Me Lisp?

Clear aligners like Invisalign® in Columbia, SC are one of the most requested orthodontic treatments when there are alignment issues to be resolved. They’re ideal for mild to moderate problems with teeth alignment, and appropriate for people of all ages who are mature enough to bear the responsibilities of wearing them outside of the orthodontist’s office. […]