Will Invisalign Treatment Affect How I Speak?

Do you have crooked or gapped teeth? Invisalign might be the solution for you. This popular treatment uses custom-made plastic aligners to fix dental issues like gaps and misalignment. While these aligners are comfortable, they can affect your speech initially. But don’t worry! Continue reading as your dentist explains how undergoing Invisalign treatment might impact your speaking and provides you with some easy tips to help you adjust quickly.

How Invisalign Affects Your Speech

Some people might notice changes in their speech with Invisalign, but studies often say otherwise. In fact, research shows that 93% of Invisalign patients did not report any speech issues. However, it’s important to know that the trays can still affect speech because they change the space in your mouth. Here are some possible effects you might experience:

• A slight lisp – Another thing to consider with Invisalign is that incorrect tongue positioning can change airflow in your mouth. This might cause “s” and “z” sounds to resemble “th.” However, your tongue will adapt over time, and this issue should gradually disappear.
• Slurred words – When you first start wearing Invisalign aligners, you might notice your speech slows down and some words sound slurred. This happens as your mouth gets used to the added thickness of the aligners around your front teeth and palate. With time, you’ll adjust, and this issue should naturally go away.

3 Ways to Reduce Invisalign Speech Impediments

Everyone adapts to Invisalign differently. Some people may have speech issues for just a few hours, while others might take several weeks to adjust. Speech difficulties usually get better over time, but you can use these techniques to speed up the process:

• Chat with people – Regularly talking with friends, family, and coworkers, as well as practicing speaking out loud, can help you adjust your speech patterns. This practice can reduce any anxiety and improve your communication skills.
• Read out loud – Try reading aloud from different sources like books, magazines, or articles. Focus on your voice and identify areas where you can improve your clarity and flow for a smoother, more confident delivery.
• Practice makes perfect – Keep practicing your pronunciation and enunciation regularly. With consistent effort, you’ll gradually overcome any speech difficulties.

Adapting to Invisalign aligners can cause initial speech challenges, but everyone’s experience is different. With patience, persistence, and support from your orthodontist, you’ll overcome these obstacles and achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!

About the Practice

At Kessler Park Dental in Dallas, Dr. Jayme Martinez leads a skilled team dedicated to providing top-notch care to patients in the DFW area. They offer a full range of treatments aimed at safeguarding, restoring, and improving dental health. From routine care to advanced options like Invisalign, they’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain a bright, healthy smile you can be proud of. To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact Kessler Park Dental at (214) 303-9969 or visit their website.