Your smile is well on its way to a complete transformation with clear aligners, but have you considered what changes might happen along the way? For instance, you may not sound like yourself for a short while because your new braces affect how you speak. Instead of becoming paranoid or worried about this temporary adjustment, learn why it’s short-lived and how you can get back to sounding “normal” again.
Your Speech: The Problem with Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are meant to be an exciting way to straighten your teeth, so why are you suddenly experiencing a change in how you talk? These trays are thin and sleek, but they add just enough bulk for your teeth and tongue to notice.
The two work together to create different sounds, helping you speak clearly and without slurring your words, but the extra material can also create challenges and result in a slight lisp. It’s annoying, but it’s part of the process, which is necessary if you want straighter teeth.
You’re required to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day, so you’ll need time to get used to talking with them. How can you do it without feeling like giving up?
Practical Tips for Speaking with Clear Aligners
Remember, this change in your speech is only temporary. It won’t continue throughout treatment. There are ways to hurry up the process, such as:
- Reading Aloud: Whether it’s by yourself or with someone else, reading aloud can help you work through difficult words. You’ll hear various sounds that you can repeat until you say them more fluidly.
- Slowing Your Speech: Fast talking will not make the process easier. Instead, slow down and enunciate each word so you can say it correctly.
- Fix Your Posture: Slouching blocks airflow, making it harder to speak clearly. Standing straight makes it easier to form words and sounds.
- Record Yourself Talking: If you don’t have someone who can point out the changes in your speech, try recording yourself. When you listen to the playback, you can identify problem areas and work to correct them.
Changes in the way you talk are temporary, so don’t fixate on the problem and assume it will stick around until you’re done with treatment. You can adopt these habits and talk to your dentist about additional ways to improve your speech, so you feel more confident while wearing clear aligners.
About Grand Dental – Naperville
Grand Dental – Naperville offers clear aligners as a more confident, comfortable approach to orthodontics. Available for most patients, they make it easy to work toward a straighter smile without feeling self-conscious. If you are considering clear aligners but want to know more about what you can expect from treatment, visit our website or call us at (630) 576-9970 to schedule an appointment.