Will Invisalign Cause a Lisp? Here’s How to Adjust to Speaking with Aligners

If you just started Invisalign and noticed a slight lisp, don’t panic—it’s common, and it’s temporary. Many patients wonder, “Will I talk funny with Invisalign?” or “How do I get rid of a lisp with aligners?” The truth is, most people adjust within a few days to a week.

At Dominion Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you through every part of treatment—including how to speak clearly and confidently with aligners.

Why Do I Sound Different with Invisalign?

When you first start wearing aligners, your tongue needs to get used to the new shape inside your mouth. Invisalign trays cover your teeth, which slightly changes how your tongue hits the roof of your mouth—especially for sounds like “s,” “z,” and “sh.”

That’s why you might notice a lisp or feel like you’re talking differently. It’s a normal adjustment, and most people are the only ones who even notice it.

Is the Lisp with Invisalign Permanent?

Not at all! For most patients, the lisp fades in just a few days to two weeks. The key is consistency—wearing your aligners 20–22 hours a day helps your mouth adapt quickly.

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

1. Practice Talking Out Loud

Reading aloud or chatting with a friend helps train your tongue to speak naturally with your aligners in.

2. Focus on Problem Sounds

Sounds like “s,” “z,” and “sh” are often affected most. Repeating these sounds helps you adjust more quickly.

3. Try These Tongue Twisters

• 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 speak can help you track your progress and build confidence.

5. Keep Wearing Them

Taking aligners out to speak only delays your progress. The more you talk with them in, the faster your mouth adapts.

6. Clean Your Aligners

Rinse and brush your trays daily. Build-up can affect how they feel—and how you sound.

Your Voice, Your Smile—Both Will Sound Amazing

Feeling unsure about your speech at first is totally normal, but don’t let it discourage you. At Dominion Orthodontics, our team is always here to help make your Invisalign experience smooth from start to finish.

Thinking About Invisalign in Richmond, Hanover, or Glen Allen?

We offer free consultations so you can learn if Invisalign is right for you—no pressure, just answers and expert care.

👉 Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation
👉 Discover Invisalign at Dominion Orthodontics