Will I Have a Lisp with Invisalign? Here's How to Speak Clearly with Aligners
If you're starting your Invisalign journey and wondering, “Will I have a lisp with Invisalign?” — you're not alone. Many patients experience a slight change in speech at first, especially with certain sounds like “s,” “z,” and “sh.” The good news? It’s temporary, and your mouth will adjust quickly with a little practice.
At Beecroft Orthodontics, our team is here to support you every step of the way, including helping you feel confident when you speak.
Why Do Invisalign Aligners Affect Speech?
Invisalign aligners fit snugly over your teeth and slightly alter the space your tongue uses to make sounds. This can interfere with your tongue's placement, especially when producing sibilant sounds like “s” and “z.” The result is often a mild lisp that most people will barely notice—but you might feel more self-conscious about it than others notice.
How Long Does the Lisp Last?
Most patients adjust to speaking with aligners within a few days to a couple of weeks. Your tongue and mouth are quick to adapt, especially when you wear your aligners consistently (20–22 hours a day). The more you speak with them in, the faster the adjustment happens.
How to Get Rid of a Lisp with Invisalign: 6 Tips That Work
1. Practice Speaking Out Loud
Reading aloud—even just for a few minutes a day—helps your mouth get used to the aligners. Try speaking slowly and clearly at first, then work up to normal speed.
2. Repeat Tricky Sounds
Focus on sounds that feel strange with aligners, especially “s,” “z,” and “sh.” Practicing those sounds helps your tongue adjust more quickly.
3. Use Tongue Twisters
They might sound silly, but they’re actually a great way to get comfortable with aligners. Here are a few to try:
S sounds:
“Sally sells sea shells by the seashore.”
“Seven slippery snakes slid silently southward.”Z sounds:
“Zebra zippers zip through zigzag zones.”
“Lazy lizards lying like logs.”SH sounds:
“She should shop for shiny shoes.”
“Shiny shells shimmer silently.”
4. Record Yourself
Sometimes hearing yourself back helps you notice improvement—and boosts your confidence as your speech becomes more natural.
5. Stay Consistent
The more you wear your aligners, the faster you’ll adapt. Taking them out every time you speak just delays the adjustment period.
6. Keep Them Clean
Saliva buildup or residue can affect how your aligners feel and sound. Cleaning them daily keeps everything fitting and functioning smoothly.
Is a Lisp with Invisalign Permanent?
Not at all. For the vast majority of patients, any lisp or speech change is short-term. With regular wear and a little effort, your speech will sound completely normal again in no time.
Still Feeling Unsure?
If your lisp lasts more than a few weeks or your aligners feel uncomfortable when speaking, let us know. At Beecroft Orthodontics, we’re happy to check the fit and offer personalized advice.
You've Got This—and We've Got You!
Starting Invisalign is a big step, and it's completely normal to have questions along the way. Whether it’s a temporary lisp or learning how to speak confidently with aligners, our team is here to help every step of the way.
Ready to Start Invisalign in Fredericksburg or Stafford?
Schedule your free consultation with Beecroft Orthodontics today! We’ll help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted—with support you can count on.
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