For people without any teeth in their upper or lower arches, getting dentures can be quite the relief. With them, everyday tasks like chewing and speaking can be easily accomplished again. However, because dentures are not exactly like your natural teeth, it will take some time for you to adjust to them. In particular, talking with dentures can be somewhat difficult and awkward at first. Luckily, your dentist in Kittanning can tell you what to expect while getting used to your dentures as well as tips that can make speaking easier.
How Do Dentures Affect Speech?
Some words might be hard to pronounce when you first get your dentures. Many people particularly have trouble with the “s” and “f” sounds. This is largely because dentures sit differently in your mouth compared to your natural teeth, so the tongue needs to relearn how to move properly in order to make the desired sounds. Also, when you first get dentures, your mouth may start to salivate more than usual due to the constant presence of a foreign object; excess salivation can often cause problems while talking.
All of these issues will eventually fade over time once the tongue and the rest of the mouth get used to your dentures. That said, if you’d like to stop your speech problems sooner rather than later, there are a few things you can do to help the process along.
What are Some Tips for Talking with Dentures?
Below are some simple tips that can help you get used to speaking with new teeth:
- Take the time to repeat and elongate commonly used words and phrases that you are having trouble with. The more your practice, the less time it will take for your mouth to retrain itself to pronounce certain sounds.
- Read the newspaper or a book out loud to yourself. Not only does this help with the adjustment process, but it will also give you a chance to get used to how you sound when speaking with dentures. This can help you feel more confident when you speak with others.
- Practice speaking with your friends and loved ones. They may be able to help you pick out words that you’re having trouble with so that you know what you need to practice. The more you successfully converse with other while wearing dentures, the better you’ll feel about your new teeth.
Remember that everyone who gets dentures has to go through the process of learning how to speak with them. As long as you follow the instructions you’re given and give your mouth plenty of opportunities to practice, it won’t be long before talking with your new teeth becomes second nature. And if you’re having more trouble than expected, remember that “calling the dentist near me” is always an option.
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller has practiced in Kittanning ever since he graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 1980. He is a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, and he has given many lectures on dental topics such as restorative dentistry. He can help patients replace any number of teeth with expertly personalized dentures. To schedule an appointment with him at Voller Dentistry to ask about dentures, visit his website or call (724) 543-4948.