Talking with dentures has a reputation for being extremely difficult. A few may even think that the issue makes treatment pointless. However, the learning process isn’t nearly as hard as these stereotypes suggest. With just a little time, anyone can speak clearly and confidently with these replacement teeth. To prove it, here’s a summary of how dentures affect speech and some tips to speed up your adjustment to them. Read it over and you’ll see that the prosthetic not only restores your smile but also makes you a fine speaker
How Do Dentures Affect Speech?
When you first start wearing them, dentures can be uncomfortable and awkward. Due to lacking the nerves of natural teeth, they might feel foreign or clunky. As a result, some words may become difficult to pronounce at first. Furthermore, you may have problems enunciating the “s” or “f” sounds.
In rarer cases, your dentures may initially cause slurred speech, lisping, or excess salivation.
Tips to Overcome Speech Problems with Dentures
Thankfully, all of these issues normally disappear as you get used to your dentures. Plus, there are ways to make the adjustment period faster. Consider trying one or more of the following practices:
Constantly Read Aloud
Practice reading aloud with your dentures to get used to saying common words, as well as to give you an idea of how quickly you can speak with ease. To that end, read a daily newspaper, magazine, or book aloud. Not only will the exercise help you get used to the sound of yourself with dentures, but it’ll help build your confidence when speaking.
Repeat Difficult-to-Pronounce Words
As mentioned earlier, some words may be difficult to pronounce when you first start talking with dentures. To overcome said difficulty, it’d be a good idea to repeat and elongate common words and phrases. In this way, you’d effectively re-train your mouth to properly enunciate while wearing the dentures. Start out with the “s” and “f” sounds referenced above.
Have More Conversations
They say that real world experience is one of the best ways to build a new skill. The same applies to talking with dentures, so have more conversations with family and friends. Not only will this help you build confidence in your public speaking, but your discussion partners can also hear your speech and identify where you’re struggling. With their help, you can know which words are most troublesome and need practice the most.
For more tips on clear speech for denture patients, talk to your dentist. They’ll provide you with expert advice, ensuring your clear and clean smile comes with a clear and clean voice!
About the Practice
Glastonbury Dental Associates is based in Glastonbury, CT. Led by an excellent team of dentists, they have a reputation for quality dental care. Their services include preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency dental treatments. They also strive to give patients a superior experience thanks to their emphasis on comfort and advanced dental technology. For more information or to book an appointment, they can be reached at their website or by phone at (860)-633-3671.