Lingual braces or “hidden braces” are a unique form of orthodontic treatment, as they are not visible. Placed on the backsides of teeth, patients who choose these appliances can enjoy working toward a straighter smile without anyone ever knowing they’re wearing braces. But can these metal brackets and wires cause a lisp to form? Keep reading to find out if a speech impediment is something to expect while wearing lingual braces.
Will You Develop a Lisp While Wearing Lingual Braces?
Yes, there is a good chance you will develop a lisp while undergoing treatment with hidden braces, but here’s the reason why:
The tongue must be able to touch the backsides of your teeth to form sounds and words. When something is in the way, like metal brackets and wires, it creates a deviation from the normal movement that occurs. Instead of your words sounding clearer, a slight lisp will form – one that can potentially last for one month or more.
This reality may seem unfortunate, but you don’t need to worry about your speech impediment lasting forever. After your tongue adjusts to these appliances, you will begin to sound like your normal self again.
Are Lingual Braces Worth It?
Although a lisp is likely to form with lingual braces, you may still wonder if they’re worth the investment. The answer is yes!
Not only will you enjoy straightening your smile without shiny metal bringing attention to treatment, but you’ll also:
- Remain confident in your braces’ ability to correct your bite problems, which will reduce enamel erosion and dental damage over time.
- Enjoy a more customized orthodontic approach that promotes comfort and efficiency.
- Avoid obvious white spots that commonly form after braces are removed, as they will be located on the backsides of your teeth instead of on the front surfaces.
- Be able to play an instrument more easily than if you were wearing traditional braces, which often require you to make adjustments with your mouth to effectively play.
- Worry less about accidentally damaging your braces since they’re located on the backsides of teeth, not the front.
Lingual braces are still a worthwhile option if you want to achieve a straighter smile but avoid drawing attention to the required process. While a lisp may form, you can be confident that you’ll soon sound like yourself again and be able to focus on the ultimate goal of a healthy, beautiful set of teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Isaak Yelizar is a board-certified orthodontist – a designation only held by 30% of those practicing. At SimpliBraces, he provides patients with different treatment options based on preference, budget, and the severity of one’s misalignment, crookedness, overcrowding, or gaps. With lingual braces being one of the available solutions, their non-visible approach makes orthodontic treatment more enjoyable for many patients. If you are interested in these appliances and how they work, visit our website or call (929) 229-1009.