If you are considering using Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you are probably excited about the convenience and effectiveness of this orthodontic solution. While Invisalign aligners offer many advantages, you might have questions about how they could impact your everyday life, especially your speech. This blog post explains some key points that you should keep in mind.

How Invisalign Aligners Can Influence Your Speech

Invisalign aligners fit snugly over your teeth and are designed to be both discreet and comfortable. However, the unique fit of these aligners can create subtle changes in your speech, especially during the initial adjustment period.

• You might notice a slight lisp when you first begin wearing your aligners. This lisp is usually caused by the thin plastic barrier between your tongue and your teeth. Sounds such as “s” and “z” may temporarily sound more like “th.”
• Your speaking style could change. Many people find that they need to slow down and articulate words more carefully while they are getting used to their aligners.

Fortunately, most speech changes with Invisalign are pretty subtle. You might be the only one that notices them!

Strategies for Adjusting to Speech Changes

Time and practice can go a long way toward normalizing your speech with Invisalign. Here are some useful tips:

• Practice speaking out loud frequently. Reading to yourself or engaging in conversation at home can help your mouth adapt to the new sensations associated with your aligners.
• Keep your aligners in your mouth for the recommended amount of time each day. Removing them often to sound “normal” may slow your adjustment.
• Allow yourself time to adapt. You may experience noticeable improvement as your mouth gets used to the aligners. Be patient and do not try to rush things.
• Remember that most people will not notice minor differences in your speech. Avoid feeling too self-conscious about temporary changes. Instead, focus on speaking naturally and confidently.

Timeline for Speech Adaptation

Each person adapts to Invisalign at a different pace. Some individuals find that their speech returns to normal within a few hours or days, while others may require a few weeks for full adjustment. You might also experience slight speech changes each time you switch to a new set of aligners, but adaptation usually becomes quicker with each transition.

Although most speech changes resolve without professional intervention, you should reach out to your dental provider if you experience significant or ongoing difficulties. Your dentist can offer guidance and may make adjustments to your treatment plan to help you speak more comfortably.

Invisalign may have a slight impact on your speech, but that is not a big deal for most patients. Talk to your dentist if you have additional questions about how this treatment may affect your daily life.

Meet the Practice

At Abington Family Dental Care, our highly skilled team is pleased to offer a range of services, including Invisalign clear aligners. If you would like to straighten your teeth or are interested in learning more about how to make a success out of this treatment, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact our office at 781-780-2658.