Invisalign has become a popular alternative to traditional braces, offering an incredible range of benefits. Not only are the aligners discreet and easy to maintain, but you’ll also be free from the dietary restrictions that come with metal braces. One common concern people considering Invisalign have is whether it could lead to speech issues. Want to learn more about how this orthodontic treatment can affect the way you speak? Continue reading!
Do Speech Issues Occur with Invisalign?
Thankfully, speech impediments related to Invisalign are quite rare. Most users experience no significant issues. The clear aligners are made from thin plastic that fits snugly over the teeth, which doesn’t interfere with normal speech for the vast majority of patients. In fact, studies have shown that 93% of Invisalign users reported no speech difficulties at all. However, it’s not unusual for some people to experience minor speech challenges during the first few days or weeks of use.
How Can Invisalign Affect Speech?
Invisalign aligners can subtly change how your teeth align and how your tongue moves when speaking, which may temporarily affect speech. Some patients notice a slight lisp, especially when pronouncing sounds like “s,” “sh,” and “z.” This is typically a temporary adjustment as the tongue adapts to the aligners. It’s important to note that these speech changes are usually minor and don’t last long.
Tips for Getting Used to Talking with Invisalign
If you do experience some speech difficulties when you first start wearing Invisalign, there are ways to make the adjustment easier. Speaking slowly and clearly can help as your tongue gets used to the new aligners. With time, you’ll likely find that your speech returns to normal as you grow more comfortable with the aligners.
It’s also normal to face a brief adjustment period when switching to a tighter aligner, which might cause a temporary lisp. However, this phase tends to be much shorter than the initial adjustment period. If you have an important event, you can remove the aligners for a short time to improve speech clarity. Just be sure to wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day to maintain progress and continue adjusting to speaking with them in place!
About the Practice
Foundation Dental Solutions is ready to support you throughout your Invisalign journey. We’ll be there every step of the way as we guide your teeth toward better alignment. Should you encounter any speech challenges along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out for helpful tips and advice. You can visit our website or call (817) 592-8626.