Braces have long been the leading form of orthodontic treatment. They’re affordable and effective, providing patients with beautifully aligned teeth and healthier smiles. Despite their proven track record, some people with misalignment have reservations about receiving braces.
Common concerns include how they look and how they might feel. As far as appearances, it’s important to remember that braces are only temporary, and once they’re off, you will have the best smile you’ve ever had. Additionally, because of how popular braces are, everyone has known someone with braces. They aren’t strange or unusual. They’re simply a temporary phase of orthodontic treatment.
As for how they feel, it may take a week or two for your mouth to adjust to the presence of braces. That’s not to say that they hurt, but there might be some agitation in your gums or lips. This will quickly pass, and before you know it, you’ll forget they’re there.
However, some people are worried that braces might affect them in other ways. For example, they worry that braces will impact the way they talk.
Do Braces Affect Speech?
Though everyone’s situation can be different, it’s very rare for braces to impact the way you talk while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. Even those who may develop a minor lisp or slur will quickly lose it once their mouth adjusts to the new braces or Invisalign. You can rest assured that you will quickly sound just like you always have.
Actually, you might sound even better than before.
The Positive Effect of Braces on Speech
Alignment problems can cause a number of speech issues. Certain sounds are made by the way your tongue rests against your teeth. If those teeth are misaligned, your speech could be negatively impacted.
Overbites often cause lisps. Gaps in teeth result in whistling sounds. Misaligned teeth or jaw problems can result in slurring. If you’re front teeth are especially out of alignment, you could struggle to form “t”, “s”, or “ch” sounds as well.
Thankfully, proper orthodontic treatment can correct these issues, restoring your speech patterns to the way it was meant to be.
Life is Better After Braces
The benefits of properly aligned teeth far outweigh any inconvenience that comes with braces. If you’ve been hesitating to receive orthodontic treatment due to concerns about how you’ll look or sound, there’s nothing to be worried about. Orthodontic treatment is the only way to fix alignment problems.
For a trustworthy orthodontist in the Beavercreek area, contact Dhingra Orthodontics today! We also have locations in Springfield and Bellefontaine.
