Braces are a big step toward achieving a perfect smile, but they often come with a host of questions. One curiosity that many people have is: “Will braces change my voice?” If you’re preparing for orthodontic treatment and wondering if your speech or singing voice might be affected, let’s dive into the science, experiences, and facts surrounding this topic.

What does your voice depend on?

Your voice is shaped by several factors. These include:

• Vocal cords – These produce sound through vibrations.
• Airflow and breathing – Controlled breathing from your lungs powers your voice.
• Resonating chambers – Your mouth, throat, and nasal passages shape the sound into what we recognize as your voice.
• Articulation – The tongue, teeth, and lips fine-tune sounds into speech.

Braces mainly interact with the teeth and mouth, so any changes they cause will likely relate to articulation.

How braces might affect your voice

For most people, wearing braces doesn’t significantly alter their voice. However, there are some nuances to consider:

Initial adjustment period

When you first get braces, you might notice a temporary change in how you speak. This happens because the brackets and wires occupy extra space in your mouth. Your tongue needs time to adjust to speaking around the hardware and may take some time to regain your normal speech. However, these effects are usually temporary. Within a week or two, your tongue and lips will adapt, and your speech will return to normal.

Pronunciation of certain sounds

Some people find that braces make specific sounds harder to pronounce, especially ones that rely on tongue placement against the teeth.

Do braces permanently change your voice?

No, braces do not permanently change your voice. The adjustments you experience are temporary and related to your mouth adapting to the hardware. Once your braces are removed, any minor changes in speech typically disappear entirely. Some people report that their speech improves after braces, especially if the treatment resolves alignment issues like overbites or underbites.

Tips for adjusting your speech with braces

If you’re worried about how braces might affect your speech or voice, here are some tips to help you adapt:

• Practice speaking – Spend time reading aloud or having conversations. The more you use your voice, the faster you’ll adjust.
• Slow down your speech – Speaking too quickly can make it harder to articulate clearly. Slowing down can help you regain confidence in your pronunciation.
• Hydrate your mouth – Braces can sometimes cause dry mouth, which can affect your speech. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Talk to your dentist – If a specific part of your braces, like a wire or bracket, is interfering with your speech, let your orthodontist know. They may be able to make adjustments.

Embrace the journey

If you’re considering braces but worried about your voice, rest assured that any changes are manageable and temporary. Braces are a stepping stone to improved oral health and a beautiful smile, and the adjustment period is a small price to pay for the long-term benefits. For the best deal and experience with your braces, you will need a competent and professional dental practitioner to walk that journey with you. You can trust our dentist at Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic to offer life-changing, effective and fulfilling braces treatment. Visit our clinic at the Park Suites Building in Parklands, or contact us for enquiries on our services. We shall give you the perfect smile, without changing the quality of your voice.