Your teeth play a crucial role in the way you speak. Pronouncing the various sounds of human speech requires precise positioning of the tongue and lips, and some of these sounds can’t be properly pronounced without touching the tongue to the teeth. Thankfully, modern dentures are incredibly lifelike, fantastically comfortable, and can work wonders for restoring your natural chewing and speaking ability. Here are a few ways to help you get used to speaking with dentures so you can start confidently talking your friends’ ears off as soon as possible.
What Difficulties Can People Have When Speaking with Dentures?
Dentures take some time to get used to, and speaking with them can feel uncomfortable at first. You may deal with issues such as lisping, slurring your words, or excessive salivation. You may accidentally pronounce the letters “f” and “s” so they make the sounds of “th” or “sh.” Many denture patients also have difficulties when pronouncing the “f,” “v,” and “th” sounds. You may also find yourself making a whistling noise when you make the “s” sound.
How Can I Speak Normally When Wearing Dentures?
Luckily, speaking with dentures will only become easier as you do it more and more, and you should be speaking normally within fifteen to thirty days. You can also expect any discomfort or excessive salivation to diminish or disappear during this time. You can help this process along by:
- Using denture adhesive: Many patients find that applying denture adhesive to their appliances helps them stay in place more easily.
- Speak slowly: Taking a little extra time to form words when you’re wearing dentures can make it easier to learn how to do so properly.
- Read aloud: Take a favorite book into a cozy room and read it word for word so your mouth can acclimate to speaking with your appliance. It’s also a great idea to repeat difficult words over and over until they start sounding right.
It can take some time to get used to speaking with dentures if you’ve gone without your real teeth for a while. With practice, patience, and persistence, you can rest assured that you’ll be speaking normally in no time.
About the Author
Dr. Brian Coats earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the Creighton University School of Dentistry and has tended to the oral health needs of Longmont, CO for over twenty-five years. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Colorado Dental Association, and the Boulder County Dental Association. His office provides general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. For more information on acclimating to wearing dentures, contact his office online or dial (303) 776-4090.