Invisalign is a popular choice for straightening teeth, and it’s easy to see why. It’s comfortable, removable, and best of all, nearly invisible. So, what’s not to love? Unfortunately, many patients experience some “growing pains” in the speech department. If you’re picturing yourself sounding like you’ve got a mouthful of marbles, don’t worry—that’s not the case. Here’s what really happens and how you can prepare.
What to Expect at First
When you first start wearing your aligners, you might notice a slight lisp or slurring of certain sounds, especially “s” or “sh.” This is totally normal. It means that your tongue is adjusting to the feel of the aligners and just needs a little time to adapt.
For most people, this adjustment takes just a few days. Others may need a week or two to sound totally normal again, but the change is rarely drastic enough to cause concerns. Most likely, others will still understand you just fine!
How Does Invisalign Affect Speech?
There are multiple, subtle adjustments your mouth makes whenever you talk to form words, but you’ve probably been talking so long you don’t notice. When anything new enters the equation, like Invisalign aligners, your mouth mechanics shift slightly. That’s why certain sounds may come out differently in the beginning. But just like adjusting to a new pair of shoes, your muscles learn quickly.
Tips to Speed Up Your Speech Recovery
While your speech impediments only last a little while, you may still want to speed up the process. Here are a few ways you can keep your treatment on track and rid yourself of any lisps or slushy words:
- Practice Speaking: Reading aloud, singing, or chatting with friends helps you get used to speaking with your aligners in.
- Wear Them Consistently: The more you wear them, the faster your mouth will adjust.
- Stick to the Schedule: Only remove your trays when eating or drinking. Wearing them 20–22 hours a day helps with speech and treatment progress.
- Don’t Panic: The more relaxed you are, the easier the transition will be. Everyone adapts at their own pace.
So, yes, Invisalign changes the way you talk a little bit at first. But any changes are usually minor, temporary, and completely manageable. In fact, most patients find that within a few days, their speech is back to normal. If you ever have concerns, don’t be afraid to talk to your dentist. They can help you understand what’s happening and offer personalized suggestions to fix it.
About the Practice
Ready to begin your Invisalign treatment and step onto the path to a straightened smile? Dr. Dalton Hunt and Dr. Mark Helms can help! They’re proud to offer safe, effective, clear aligner treatment that will bring you closer to the glow-up for your grin you’ve always wanted. Call (919) 787-8243 to schedule an Invisalign consultation with us at Dalton Hunt Dentistry or visit our website to explore other services.