Patient Forms
Now that you have replaced your missing teeth with dentures, you may be excited about getting a full smile once again. You’ll be able to show it off confidently while also enjoying a wide range of foods more easily. However, you might be a bit surprised hearing how this prosthetic can alter your speech. Keep reading to learn why this happens and what you can do to help get back to speaking clearly.
Why Can Dentures Affect the Way I Speak?
Modern dentures are made with your smile in mind using high-quality materials. While they are customized to fit comfortably in your mouth, it will take some time to get used to them. Your tongue might bump into the prosthetic until it starts to feel natural having it in. This process may take a couple of weeks, but wearing them will become second-nature in no time.
How Will My Speech Change with Dentures?
It’s not uncommon for someone to develop a slight lisp with their dentures. When this happens, they might have issues pronouncing “th,” “f,” “s,” and “v” sounds. You might also experience minor whistling and a clicking noise or feeling. This can happen as you are biting down too hard, but these are only temporary changes. Remember that you’ll get used to them in no time and get back to confident speech.
How Can I Adjust Talking with Dentures?
That being said, there are some ways you can adjust to your dentures just a bit sooner than expected. Here are easy tips that you can follow in the meantime:
- Read out loud to yourself, so you can hear how you sound and pinpoint words that are tricky to say. Taking time to fully pronounce them can help you figure out how to say them clearly later on. It might also be helpful to record yourself and listen back to it.
- Count starting at 60 to 90; that way, you can get used to practicing difficult words.
- Talk with someone you trust and have them give you feedback on how clear your clarity is. This will help you know how you sound to other people!
In the end, be sure to be patient with yourself. Talking a bit awkwardly at first is normal, and you’ll be well adjusted to them in no time. Instead, follow the simple tips above and look forward to a full smile that you feel your best in.
About the Author
Dr. Francisca Sanchez completed her AEGD at the Columbia School of Dental Medicine. She now has over 20 years of experience that she uses to give the New York community the highest-quality care they deserve. By offering dentures, Dr. Sanchez is here to help you get the rebuilt grin you love. By ensuring your prosthetic is customized to you, you can trust that your results look lifelike and feel comfortable. If you want some tips on talking with your new restoration, schedule an appointment or call her office at (646) 669-7407.