Will Braces Change the Way I Speak or Affect My Pronunciation?

By InSmyle Dental

You might be self-conscious about how you sound when your braces are first put on. The brackets and wires can change the way your mouth feels, making it difficult to pronounce certain words. This can lead to a lisp or trouble with certain sounds — especially “S” and “T.” Unfortunately, these changes tend to be short-lived and are part of the normal process of getting your mouth accustomed to its new appliances.

How Braces Can Change Your Speech Temporarily

When you first get braces, it’s normal to notice changes in the way you speak. Here are some common reasons why:

Foreign Objects in Your Mouth: The metal brackets and wires occupy a new space in your mouth. That can be an awkward feeling when you try to speak, and it might take a while for your tongue and lips to catch up.
Bite Changes: Braces work by gradually shifting your teeth into better alignment. During this process, the way your teeth meet might feel different, which can also affect your ability to enunciate certain words.
Mouth Soreness: After an adjustment to your braces treatment in Chicago, IL, your mouth might experience some minor discomfort. This may make it more difficult to speak clearly, particularly if your teeth are sensitive.

How Braces Treatment in Chicago, IL, Can Affect Your Pronunciation

As with all orthodontic therapy, there is an adjustment period with braces. The good news is that any changes in your speech are typically short-lived. The majority of people experience transient speech changes over days or weeks. After you have had your braces for a while and your mouth has gotten used to them, it will seem like your speech has returned to normal, and you can pronounce words just fine.

Indeed, many patients realize that once their teeth start straightening, their speech often improves. For example, if you have an overbite or tooth overcrowding, these issues may affect your speech. As your teeth align with braces, your overall oral functionality can improve, making it easier to speak properly.

Tips for Adjusting to Braces and Improving Your Speech

Many people worry about how braces will affect their ability to speak clearly. Here are some things you can do to make it easier to get through this transition period:

Practice Speaking Out Loud: The more you speak, the quicker you’ll get used to your new braces. Try reading aloud or practicing your favorite phrases to build confidence.
Use Orthodontic Wax: Many people experience discomfort in their mouths when they first start wearing braces. Orthodontic wax can help reduce irritation to the cheeks and tongue caused by brackets.
Stay Away From Certain Foods: Patients should avoid eating hard or sticky foods. Eating softer foods will help the patient become accustomed to wearing the braces before attempting more challenging foods.
Allow Time To Adjust: Don’t expect to speak perfectly right away when you start wearing braces. It will require time and practice to become accustomed to wearing and talking with it. Most patients report that their speech returns to normal within 2 or 3 weeks after receiving their braces.

Your New Smile Awaits – Are You Ready To Begin Your Braces Journey?

Everyone says this, and it’s definitely a normal thing to be concerned about how braces will affect your speech. Fortunately, any changes are temporary, and you’ll get used to your new appliances quickly. As time goes on, you’ll have discovered that braces serve to improve your smile and aid your speech by putting your teeth in the correct position.

If you are interested in braces treatment in Chicago, IL, don’t wait to take the first step towards a confident and healthy smile today. At In Smyle Dental, we are committed to providing you or a loved one with a comfortable and positive experience.

Call us today to schedule your consultation and begin the process towards a beautiful smile!