You know Invisalign aligners are, when properly taken care of, crystal clear. In fact, they’re so low-profile that they’re often considered invisible. However, they’re still an oral device that you insert over top of your teeth. Won’t that affect the way you talk?
The simple answer is yes – but not as much as you might think! Keep reading to find out how Invisalign will still feel very much invisible, even while you speak.
New Aligners, New Rules
Interestingly (and perhaps grossly) enough, when you introduce foreign objects to your mouth, it works overtime to produce more saliva. Why? Well, to make sure everything stays moist. Your teeth and oral tissue are healthier in a humid environment. So while turning up the spit-works is a good instinct, it will likely make talking with Invisalign a bit difficult at first.
Invisalign Practice Makes Invisalign Perfect
Fortunately, as you and your mouth adjust to your new aligners, your oral saliva will go back down to normal levels. You’ll also start to get a better feel for your trays and will get the hang of talking around them. However, that’s only if you practice! Hearing yourself lisp and slur might be uncomfortable, but if you don’t talk, you won’t learn.
If it will soothe your nerves, you can pick up some extra practice time at home. Read out loud from your favorite book or repeat lines from auditory media. Whatever practice habits help you feel more confident and comfortable with your Invisalign is what you should do!
Need to Vent? Call Your Dentist!
Even if you make use of this tip, there might be days where you’re tempted to remove your trays for longer than recommended. Resist the urge! This could cause your teeth to shift back out of alignment, prolonging your treatment. Instead, call your dentist. They’ll listen attentively to your frustrations and can give you personalized recommendations for making life a little easier. The goal is to straighten your teeth as smoothly as possible, so don’t hesitate to contact them for extra help.
About the Author
Dr. Gus Bal earned his dental degree from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He continues to actively pursue continuing education, so if there’s emerging research or technology surrounding Invisalign, he’ll know about it! If your clear aligners are causing you discomfort, contact Dr. Bal’s office at 613-706-4763.