Getting dentures can change the way you talk in a big way. They do this because they change the way your mouth is built. It changes the way your tongue, lips, and teeth move as a whole.
This might make it harder to say some sounds, especially ones that need the tongue to be pressed firmly against the teeth. Visit the Surrey denture clinic to learn more about how dentures can change the way you talk.
Common speech challenges that come with dentures.
- Lisping: If you spit out your words, the “s” sound will often come out as a “th.” That is because the tongue can not easily touch the front upper teeth to make the right “s” sound.
- Slurred speech: If your dentures do not fit right or are not in the right place, your speech could become hard to understand. This is because your dentures move around when you talk, making it hard to make a clear sound.
- Whistling or clicking sounds: If your dentures do not fit right, they might make whistling or clicking sounds when you talk. This happens when air gets out from under your dentures and into your gums.
- Problems pronouncing some sounds: It can be hard to say sounds like “s,” “f,” and “th” clearly when you wear dentures.
- Changes in voice quality: Dentures can sometimes change the way your voice resonates in small ways, which could affect the quality of your voice as a whole.
Tips for improving speech with dentures.
- Practice: Consistent efforts are important. It can help you figure out what you need to work on, such as reading out loud, speaking slowly and carefully, or even recording yourself speaking.
- Speech exercises: Some exercises can help you stand up straighter and build up the muscles in your mouth. Some examples are exercises for the lips, tongue twisters, and making sounds that are hard to make.
- Dental check-ups: It is important to go to the doctor often. They can make any changes that are needed to make your dentures fit and work better and make sure they do.
- You might want to see a speech therapist: A speech therapist can help you with your specific speech issues by giving you tips and tasks that are made just for you.
Additional things to consider.
- Denture adhesives: Sometimes, denture adhesives can help keep things in place and stop them from moving, which can help you understand what you are reading better.
- Challenges with the soft palate: Dentures can sometimes hurt the soft palate, making it hard to speak. If you are having trouble, talk to your doctor or a speech therapist.
- What it does to your mind: It might take a while to get used to how dentures look and feel. Changes like these can sometimes make someone feel less confident and good about themselves, which can affect how they speak.
If you follow these tips and get help from a professional when you need it, you can get over the speech issues that come with dentures and feel better when you talk to other people.
How to overcome the psychological impact.
Making changes to your dentures can be hard on your mind and make you feel less confident and good about your own worth. It can make you nervous or self-conscious around other people, which can make it hard to speak up.
You should tell yourself nice things and think about how having dentures helps you chew better and keeps your mouth healthy in general. It can help to talk about your troubles with family, friends, or a support group and get emotional support.
See a professional if your worry does not go away. They can help you deal with it and feel better about yourself. A lot of people have the same issues getting used to dentures.
It will take time and work, but you can get over your speech problems and get through this new part of your life if you keep practicing and get help from a professional.
