Many people want to straighten their smiles but prefer to avoid the hassle and frustration associated with traditional orthodontics. If you’re seeking a discreet and more comfortable solution, you might be a good candidate for ClearCorrect® aligners.
But it’s natural to have questions about this service, and you’re not alone if you’re wondering whether these transparent trays might impact how you speak. Continue reading to learn more about potential changes that sometimes occur and how to overcome them!
How Does ClearCorrect® Work?
Unlike standard braces, which rely on bulky metal brackets and wires infamous for cutting the tender tissues inside the mouth, ClearCorrect® utilizes a series of transparent trays that are customized to fit snugly over your arches to shift your teeth to their ideal positions.
These aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent anything from reverting back to its starting places. Then, after about a week or two, you’ll be directed to switch to the next pair in your treatment plan to account for the ongoing movement of your smile. Many patients complete this service in about 12 to 18 months, compared to the 24+ months usually required for braces.
Will ClearCorrect® Affect How I Speak?
Do you find yourself wondering whether having transparent trays on your teeth might impact your speech patterns? If so, you’re not alone! However, sources estimate that about 93% of patients did not experience any changes during their treatment. Of those who did, reports suggest that 46% of the time, the alterations were temporary.
That means most people are unlikely to experience issues with talking with ClearCorrect®. But because you form different sounds by pressing your tongue against your teeth in specific ways, there’s still a slight chance that you might develop a lisp, especially when trying to enunciate “s”, “z” and “th” sounds.
How Can I Overcome Speech Changes from ClearCorrect®?
If you do develop any changed speaking patterns, there are several things you can do to minimize their impact. For example, you can try reading out loud to yourself at home so that you can practice formulating different words. It can help to speak slowly, especially at first, and you might even record yourself so that you can listen back and notice any particularly challenging sounds, words, or phrases, in order to rehearse them until you feel more confident.
If you experience lasting issues that you cannot seem to overcome, you can contact your dentist for an appointment. There may be an issue with the fit of your aligners that they can address to help you speak more clearly.
About the Author
Dr. Ramona Rivera is passionate about building trusting relationships with patients to help them build and maintain the healthiest versions of their smiles. She graduated from the NYU School of Dentistry and also completed the Loma Linda University Maxi Dental Program. Today, she has over 15 years of experience providing a comprehensive menu of services, including ClearCorrect®, using advanced technology to meet the unique needs of people of all ages. You can request an appointment on the website or call (916) 967-2217.