Invisalign Lisp? Here’s How to Speak Clearly with Aligners

If you just started Invisalign and you’re asking, “Will I talk funny with these?” — don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people notice a slight lisp or change in speech during the first few days of wearing aligners. The good news? It’s temporary, and your mouth will adjust quickly with a little practice.

At Virginia Braces in Woodbridge and Arlington, we help patients of all ages get comfortable with their treatment—including how to speak clearly with aligners in.

Why Do Aligners Affect Your Speech?

Invisalign aligners fit closely over your teeth, which slightly alters the space your tongue uses to make certain sounds—especially “s,” “z,” and “sh.” This shift can cause a mild lisp, especially when you’re just getting used to them.

For most people, the change is barely noticeable to others but may feel more obvious to you.

Will I Have a Lisp with Invisalign?

You might, but only for a short time. A slight lisp is a normal and temporary side effect when your tongue is learning to navigate around the aligners. Most patients adjust within a few days to two weeks, especially if they wear their aligners consistently for 20–22 hours a day.

How to Get Rid of a Lisp with Invisalign: 6 Helpful Tips

1. Practice Speaking Out Loud

Reading out loud for a few minutes each day helps your tongue and lips adjust to the new shape inside your mouth. Start slow, then build up to normal speed.

2. Repeat Tricky Sounds

Practice words that include “s,” “z,” and “sh” sounds. These are usually the most affected by Invisalign.

3. Try Tongue Twisters

Challenge your speech muscles! Tongue twisters make your mouth work harder—and get better faster. Try these:

• 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

Hearing yourself can help you notice progress and build confidence.

5. Wear Them Consistently

Avoid the urge to remove your aligners when speaking. Keeping them in helps your mouth adapt faster.

6. Keep Them Clean

Rinse and brush your aligners daily. Residue or saliva buildup can make speech feel more awkward.

Is the Lisp Permanent?

Nope! For most patients, any speech changes go away on their own as your mouth adjusts. If your lisp continues beyond a few weeks or something feels off, contact our team—we’ll check your fit and help you get back on track.

You’ve Got This and We’ve Got You Covered

Starting Invisalign is an exciting step toward your best smile, and feeling comfortable when you talk is part of the process. At Virginia Braces, we’re here to answer your questions, support your journey, and make sure you feel confident from day one.

Start Your Invisalign Journey in Woodbridge or Arlington

We offer free consultations at both of our Northern Virginia locations. Let’s see if Invisalign is right for you—and help you feel confident speaking, smiling, and everything in between.

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