Impact of orthodontic treatment on speech and phonetics: a review

Abstract

Orthodontic devices, including both fixed and removable devices, have the potential to impact dental anatomy, the space within the oral cavity, the displacement of the tongue, and the production of speech. The usage of fixed labial appliances may cause transient or persistent speech and phonetics changes, particularly affecting sibilant and stopped sounds. Lingual fixed appliances, while providing aesthetic advantages, can lead to difficulties in maintaining oral hygiene, pain in the tongue, and speech disturbances. Orthodontic retainers, used post-treatment, can also affect speech and phonetics by altering the oral cavity space and tongue position. Other appliances like removable appliances, palatal expanders, and prosthetic dental appliances may also disrupt speech production. Objective, semi-objective, and subjective assessments are utilized to evaluate speech disruptions induced by orthodontic devices. Patients considering orthodontic aligners should be informed about potential temporary limitations in speech production, which can be managed by removing the device when necessary. The adaptation to orthodontic treatment may vary based on individual characteristics. Orthodontists should consider these effects and communicate them to patients. This review article explores the effect of orthodontic treatment on speech and phonetics.