With any new adventure, you can expect a hiccup or two along the way. Invisalign is an exciting treatment that will put you on the path to a straighter smile. However, some patients are concerned about the treatment’s potential to affect the way they speak and socialize.
Will you be doomed to talk funny for the duration of your treatment? Keep reading to learn more about Invisalign treatment and its potential impact on your speech.
Will Invisalign Affect My Speech?
When you first start wearing Invisalign aligners, you may notice some initial adjustments in the way you speak. In some cases, patients may experience slight lisping or pronunciation changes during the initial days of wearing Invisalign.
This is completely normal and typically temporary as your tongue and oral muscles adapt to your aligners. Additionally, your mouth may produce more saliva than normal as your mouth treats the aligners as a foreign object. With extra moisture in and around your tongue and teeth, you may struggle with annunciation.
How Can I Get Over These Speech Problems Quicker?
While the majority of your speech issues will resolve themselves over time, you may be eager to exit the “sloshing phase.” In that case, practice makes perfect:
Read Aloud
Reading from books while wearing your aligners is a great way to adapt your mouth to different sounds and positions. Writers often use larger or unfamiliar words that will stretch your lingual skills more than a casual conversation.
Talk to Yourself in the Mirror
Talking to yourself in a nearby mirror allows you to practice speaking while also showing you how your mouth adjusts. Sometimes this extra information can help you adjust your mouth and lip positions more intuitively.
Talk with a Trusted Friend
The way you sound in your head when you talk is very different than when others hear you. Because of this, you should sit down with a friend who you know won’t make you feel self-conscious and practice. They can point out specific speech patterns you may not notice yourself.
How Long Will My Speech Difficulties Last?
While your situation may vary, most patients report their speech being restored in a week or so. With all your extra practice and focused effort, you may reclaim your normal socialization abilities within a few days!
You shouldn’t be overly concerned about the effects of Invisalign on your ability to talk. The effect is temporary, and the reward for sticking with your treatment is far more important than some slurred words! If the speech problems persist for more than two weeks, talk to your dentist. They’ll pinpoint the issue and get you back on track.
About the Practice
At Salvaggio Dentistry. You’ll find a passionate team of dental professionals with expertise in multiple fields of dentistry ready to help with your treatment. The practice uses ultramodern dental technology and practiced techniques to ensure that your treatment is efficient, long-lasting, and affordable. If you need Invisalign or other treatment for a better smile, come on in! Call (289) 569-0721 to schedule an Invisalign consultation or visit the website to delve into other services.