If you're considering Invisalign for your orthodontic treatment you're probably wondering if the clear aligners will affect your ability to speak clearly. Here, our dentists offer their top tips for adjusting to talking while wearing Invisalign clear aligners.
Dental or orthodontic appliances that add any extra thickness to the roof of your mouth, or the backs of your front teeth, have the potential to affect your speech; that's exactly where Invisalign aligners sit.
So, is Invisalign likely to cause speech impediments?
No, it's not very likely at all that you will experience speech impediments due to your aligners. Invisalign's clear aligners are made from thin flexible plastic, making any impact they may have on how you speak relatively minor.
Although it's important to note that when you first have your Invisalign brace system placed you might notice a slight lisp when you make “s” or “sh” sounds.
Chances are good that this lisp will only be noticeable to you, and not to anyone listening to you speak, so you probably don’t need to worry.
The good news is that studies have shown that 93% of Invisalign patients reported no difficulties with speech while wearing their aligners.
What are some tips to reduce a speech impediment, if I have one while wearing Invisalign?
Practice, practice, practice! If you notice that your Invisalign aligners cause you to speak with a slight lisp or speech impediment, just remember: practice makes perfect!
One of the best ways to overcome the problem is by repeatedly practicing the pronunciation and enunciation of any words you are struggling with. Practicing speaking is also the best way to get used to your new aligners.
Reading out loud to yourself (or to others), chatting to pets, or having normal conversations with family and friends that you trust, are all great ways to get comfortable speaking with your aligners in.