Will Invisalign Affect How I Speak?

We aren’t all born with a perfectly straight smile, but that doesn’t mean that you need to go on with misalignment issues. You don’t need to settle for a mouthful of metal brackets and wires either. Invisalign is a common option amongst teens and adults because of the numerous benefits that the treatment offers. However, one concern that many people have is whether or not it will affect the way they speak throughout the treatment. Continue reading to learn how Invisalign can affect speech and what you can do about it.

The Two Main Speech Concerns of Invisalign

When you have any type of oral appliance, including retainers, braces, and Invisalign, you could potentially notice some changes in your speech. Here are the two most common ones that patients tend to notice:

• Slight Lisp: This occurs when the “s” and “z” sounds are pronounced the same way as the “th” sound. This happens when airflow in the mouth is impacted by the placement of the tongue. Because aligners affect the tongue’s motion against the teeth, this can occur until you become accustomed to the treatment and make adjustments.
• Speech Style: The mouth will feel different as you first get used to Invisalign. In the beginning, you may notice yourself speaking more slowly or accidentally slurring your words. It will take time for you to begin speaking quickly again and fully enunciating your words as you usually do. Once the tongue becomes used to functioning with your aligners in, these differences should disappear.

How Can You Correct Your Speech with Invisalign?

Fortunately, humans are easily able to adapt to new surroundings. When patients notice that they’ve developed a speech impediment due to their Invisalign, they can often times easily correct it in just a few days with few slipups. After all, practice makes perfect! Take the time to practice pronouncing and enunciating your words and sounds that you’re struggling with. This is the best way to overcome any slight speech issues with Invisalign. Try reading aloud to yourself or having a conversation with someone you trust and feel comfortable around, like a close friend or family member.

Any speech issues that you notice right when you get Invisalign aren’t permanent, so you don’t need to worry. By taking the time to practice words that are difficult to pronounce, you will be speaking just like you normally do in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Jacob Milner earned his dental doctorate from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and has completed advanced training in many areas of dentistry, including dental sleep medicine and treating sleep apnea. He is also a certified provider for Invisalign. To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule a consultation at his office in Owings Mills, visit his website or call (410) 902-4110.