Talk the Talk: Will Invisalign Affect My Speech?

Invisalign is a fantastic way to approach your orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces. However, many patients wonder if wearing the aligners will affect their speech. If you’re curious about Invisalign’s effect on how you talk, continue reading.

Will Invisalign Affect My Speech?

When you first start wearing Invisalign aligners, you may notice some changes in your speech patterns. This is because the aligners are made of a smooth plastic material that covers your teeth, which may temporarily alter the way your tongue moves inside your mouth.

Because of this, some patients experience a slight lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds during the initial adjustment period. This is normal as your tongue adapts to the presence of the aligners. It’s similar to the way your speech may be affected when you wear a new retainer or mouthguard for the first time.

Will the Speech Problems Go Away?

The good news is that most people adjust to speaking with Invisalign relatively quickly. With regular practice and consistent wear, your tongue will gradually adapt to the aligners, and any speech difficulties should diminish over time.

If your difficulties persist for more than a couple of weeks or if you feel discomfort, talk with your dentist. They can provide guidance and adjustments to help improve your comfort and speech clarity while wearing Invisalign.

What Can I Do to Improve My Speech Quicker?

Here are a few tips to help you adjust to speaking with Invisalign:

• Practice Reading Aloud: Reading out loud or having conversations with friends and family can help you become more comfortable speaking with your aligners.
• Slow down: Speaking slowly and enunciating your words can help improve your speech clarity. Often, patients begin to slur or splash because they get tongue-tied!
• Practice Tongue Twisters: For a fun way to get used to Invisalign, try practicing some tongue twisters you can find online. These will help you pay attention to the position of your tongue as you talk.
• Be patient: Remember that it takes time for your mouth to adapt to the presence of your aligners. Be patient with yourself as you work through any difficulties.

While wearing Invisalign may initially affect how you talk, most people adjust quickly, and any speech changes are typically temporary. With practice and patience, you can continue to communicate effectively while undergoing Invisalign treatment. Just remember, any difficulties you have now are worth the final results!

About the Author

If you’re ready to jump into your orthodontic treatment with Invisalign, Dr. James T. Sierra can easily guide you through the process. earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from The University of Texas Health Science Center. Since then, he has expanded his skills with over 1200 hours of continuing education in multiple disciplines. Call (281) 482-2631 to schedule an Invisalign consultation at Friendswood Dental Group, or visit the website to browse a full menu of services.