Clear aligners are designed to have a discreet appearance; they are unlikely to be the first thing that onlookers notice about your smile. Invisalign is a truly wonderful treatment! Still, you might wonder if it might attract attention in other ways. For example, will it cause speech problems? This blog post shares some important information that you should keep in mind.
How Invisalign Might Affect Your Speech
Some patients notice slight changes to their speech when they first start their Invisalign treatment. For example:
- You could develop a slight lisp. Since Invisalign aligners cover your teeth, they can affect how your tongue moves in your mouth. Your “s” and “z” sounds might come out as “th” instead.
- Your speech style may change. You might find that you have to speak more slowly and carefully than usual because you have not yet adjusted to the way Invisalign aligners feel in your mouth.
Normalizing Your Speech
Fortunately, most patients find that any speech differences they experience with Invisalign are both temporary and minor. As you practice talking, your mouth should get used to that thin barrier around your teeth. Gradually, it should become easier to speak precisely and clearly. You can read out loud to yourself to practice speaking with your aligners; before long, you may find that you feel much more confident when speaking!
Also, keep in mind that you should not frequently remove your aligners due to a desire to sound normal. Remember, they only work when you are wearing them! Plus, you will never get used to wearing them unless you use them consistently.
How long might it take for your speech to normalize with Invisalign? Every patient is different. Some adapt to their aligners after mere hours or a few days. For others, it can take a few weeks. Some patients even find that they have minor speech changes every time they start wearing a new set of aligners. However, adapting may become easier with each transition.
If you have severe or persistent speech problems with Invisalign, contact your dentist. They may be able to provide practical assistance.
Speech changes with Invisalign are usually not a big deal. Talk to your dental team to learn more about this issue and how you may be able to handle it.
Meet the Practice
At Gillis Dental, our team is proud to be able to provide both Invisalign clear aligners and traditional braces. If you would like to learn more about what you can expect while you are straightening your teeth, we would be pleased to answer your questions during a personal, one-on-one consultation. To request an appointment, contact our Needham office at 781-202-6357.