If you are considering Invisalign as an option for straightening your teeth, you have probably already heard about the many benefits it offers. It is truly a convenient and effective orthodontic solution! However, you may have questions about how the aligners could affect your daily life. One common concern is whether Invisalign will change the way you speak. This blog post will provide you with clear information about Invisalign and potential speech changes, as well as offer practical advice for adapting to your new aligners.
How Invisalign Might Affect Your Speech
Invisalign aligners are designed to be discreet and comfortable. However, because they fit snugly over your teeth, they can cause some minor changes in the way you speak, especially when you first begin wearing them.
- You may experience a slight lisp. This is typically due to the aligners creating a thin barrier between your tongue and your teeth. You might notice that your “s” and “z” sounds come out more like “th.”
- Your speech style might change temporarily. Some people find they need to slow down and speak more carefully as they adjust to the feel of the aligners in their mouth.
These changes are generally subtle and may not even be noticeable to others.
Tips for Normalizing Your Speech
Most patients find that any speech differences are both minor and temporary. With time and practice, your mouth should adapt to the presence of the aligners. Here are some helpful tips for adjusting to speaking with Invisalign:
- Practice speaking out loud. Reading to yourself is a great way to do this.
- Stay consistent with wearing your aligners. Removing them frequently to sound “normal” will slow down your adjustment process.
- Be patient with yourself. Your speech will likely improve as your mouth gets used to the aligners.
- Remind yourself that most people will not notice minor speech differences. There is no need to be overly self-conscious!
Timeline for Speech Adjustment
Every patient adapts at a unique pace. Some people notice their speech returns to normal within a few hours or days. Others may need a few weeks to fully adjust. It is also possible to experience minor speech changes each time you switch to a new set of aligners. Fortunately, with each transition, adapting usually becomes easier.
When to Seek Help
While most speech changes are pretty easy to deal with, you should reach out to your dental provider if you experience severe or persistent difficulties. Your dentist can provide guidance or make adjustments to help you speak comfortably.
Does Invisalign affect speech? In some cases, it can. However, this is not a big deal for most patients. Talk to your dentist if you would like more information about what to expect with this treatment.
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group, our team of dentists is proud to provide a broad range of treatments, including Invisalign clear aligners, traditional braces, and more. If you wish to straighten your teeth, we would be happy to answer your questions about your orthodontic options. To request a consultation or learn more about us, contact our Branford location at 203-439-6895.