(734) 999-9909
The loss of teeth at any age can be distressing. Dentures offer a lasting solution so you can get your beautiful smile back. However, many people have apprehensions about wearing dentures. Aside from the perceived inconvenience, one of their biggest concerns is how the artificial dental plate will affect the way they speak.
Indeed, there will be differences in your speech for the first few weeks of wearing your new dentures. You may find it uncomfortable to pronounce some syllables, and your voice may sound slightly different. However, there are ways for you to speak confidently again once you start getting used to your new teeth. If it’s your first time to wear dentures, read on to know essential tips on how to adjust to having a new smile.
Will Dentures Make Speaking Difficult?
Without sugarcoating facts, here’s the truth: yes, new dentures will affect your speech at first. Most patients will find it hard to pronounce consonants, such as T, F, and S. They’ll also find that they’re producing more saliva than before. On top of it all, having a foreign object in your mouth can be a weird sensation.
Whether you have partial or full dentures, it’s normal to experience these issues for the first few weeks. Give the muscles in your mouth some time to get used to the change. To speed up the adjustment period, practice speaking out loud whenever you have the chance. Practice by yourself, with your friends, and at the office. After a few weeks, you’ll find speaking to be a lot easier.
Here are some tips on how to practice speaking clearly with dentures:
1. Try Tongue Twisters
For new denture wearers, consonants are the hardest sounds to master. Try saying the following verses a few times throughout the day—these tongue twisters aim to practice your T’s, F’s, and S’s:
“Tiny tot Tad tasted very little treats.”
“Fair is foul and foul is fair.”
“Sister Sue sews shirts, shorts, and shoulder straps for shoulders.”
2. Read a book in front of the mirror
When you see how you speak, it’ll be easier for you to identify which syllables are the most difficult to make. Talk in front of the mirror and observe how your mouth moves. If you run out of topics, try reading a book aloud. Singing songs helps, too!
3. Bite and Swallow Before You Speak
It may take a while before your dentures fit snuggly into the shape of your oral cavity. It’s normal for them to shift while you speak. To minimize the discomfort and awkwardness, gently bite down and swallow before you talk to correct their position.
4. Keep the Volume Down
Dentures alter the anatomy of your mouth and change the way sound travels through it. For this reason, you may sound louder than usual when you start speaking with your new dentures. You may feel embarrassed talking in public places, such as your office and at restaurants. Don’t fret—consciously make an effort to keep the volume down. Over time, you’ll sound like your old self again.
Some patients may find practicing with speech therapists to be helpful. Be encouraged in the fact that there are millions of people wearing dentures who can resume their daily routines once their mouth muscles adapt to the new sensations. With constant practice, you’ll start talking more comfortably and clearly.
If you’re looking for affordable dentures in Ann Arbor, get in touch with us today! We’re happy to help.
