Will Clear Aligners Affect How I Speak?

Clear aligners have gained popularity as a discreet solution for dental issues such as gaps, misalignment, and bite problems. This treatment utilizes custom-made plastic aligners to provide a comfortable way to correct these concerns. However, adjusting to aligners may temporarily impact your speech. Read on to learn how clear aligners can affect your speaking abilities and discover strategies to overcome any challenges that may arise.

How Clear aligners Affects Your Speech

While some individuals may experience changes in speech with Clear aligners, research suggests otherwise. Studies indicate that 93% of patients undergoing Clear aligners treatment did not report any speech impediments. However, it’s essential to recognize that the trays can still affect speech due to alterations in mouth space. Here are potential effects:

• A slight lisp – Another factor to consider with Clear aligners is that improper tongue positioning can alter airflow, making “s” and “z” sounds resemble “th.” However, your tongue will adjust over time, and this issue should improve.
• Slurred words – When you first start wearing Clear aligners, you might speak more slowly and some words may sound slurred. This is because your mouth needs time to adjust to the thickness of the aligners. However, as you get used to them, this problem should gradually go away.

3 Ways to Reduce Clear aligners Speech Impediments

Everyone adjusts to Clear aligners differently. Some people may have speech difficulties for only a few hours, while others might take several weeks to fully adapt. Although speech issues usually improve over time, you can use these strategies to speed up the process:

• Chat with people – Talking regularly with friends, family, and colleagues can help you get feedback on your speech. This practice will also reduce nervousness, making it easier for you to speak clearly.
• Read out loud – Read books, magazines, and other materials out loud. Listen to your voice to identify areas for improvement and make your speech smoother and more natural.
• Practice makes perfect – Regularly practice pronouncing and enunciating words. Consistent practice will help you overcome speech difficulties more easily over time.

Adjusting to Clear aligners may cause initial speech challenges, but everyone’s experience is unique. With patience, persistence, and guidance from your orthodontist, you can overcome these hurdles and achieve the smile that you have always wanted!

About the Practice

Arlington Heights Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry proudly serves the growing smiles of the New Bedford, MA area with exceptional care. Our services span preventive, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dental procedures, specifically designed for young patients. Our experienced team offers various orthodontic solutions, carefully assessing the causes of teeth shifting to create personalized treatment plans. With a wide range of options available, including advanced treatments like Clear aligners, we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a bright, healthy smile you can be proud of. Visit our website or contact Arlington Heights Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at (847) 255-3020 for more information or to schedule an appointment.