Invisalign is one of the quickest and most popular methods for straightening your smile. Not only is it virtually invisible to other people, but you’ll also be able to enjoy all your favorite foods throughout the process. However, you may wonder if the treatment can also affect your speech while wearing your clear aligners. Read on to learn how Invisalign might influence the way you talk and what you can do to address the issue!
Will Invisalign Affect the Way I Talk?
Unlike traditional braces which use metal brackets and archwires to straighten your smile, Invisalign uses plastic clear aligners to fit snuggly over your teeth. These trays are thin and smooth, meaning they’ll be much more comfortable for your gums and other soft oral tissues. Although they shouldn’t feel bulky in your mouth, your tongue may still recognize their presence. For this reason, you may say certain words or sounds differently while wearing your clear aligners, typically in the form of a mild lisp.
How to Practice Speaking with Invisalign
While Invisalign can affect your speech, the impact is usually short-lived and will require a quick adjustment period. Some patients often take a few weeks at most to grow accustomed to speaking with their clear aligners. The best way to speed this process up is to practice constantly. The more you repeat words and phrases with your Invisalign on, the quicker your mouth and tongue will get used to their presence. You can try reading books and magazines to yourself out loud, singing in the shower, or having a thought-provoking conversation with a friend or pet.
When to Consult Your Dentist
If you notice that you aren’t making as much progress as expected, then feel free to speak with your dentist about the issue. A mild speech impediment with Invisalign can simply be due to having ill-fitted clear aligners, which can be fixed by being readjusted. Once your dentist assesses your mouth and aligners, they may provide you with better-fitted ones, if necessary, that won’t affect your speech as much.
Even if Invisalign can impact the way you talk, you won’t have to worry about this issue in the long run. Be sure to practice often to help you speak clearly during your wear time. After completing your treatment, you’ll be able to enjoy a significantly improved bite and smile for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Krunal Patel is a proud member of several organizations like the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. He graduated from the New York University College of Dentistry, and he also pursues continuing education to refine his skills and techniques. He offers multiple high-quality treatments to improve your dental health, including Invisalign. If you’d like help speaking normally with clear aligners, feel free to visit our website or call 215-643-5220.
