Your Guide to Talking with Dentures: Tips, Tricks, and What to Expect

Getting dentures is a life-changing step toward restoring your smile, improving chewing, and boosting your confidence. While they can make eating and smiling easier, speaking with new dentures can be a bit challenging at first. It’s normal to notice differences in your speech, but with patience and practice, you can regain clear, comfortable communication.

What Changes to Expect

When you first start wearing dentures, you might notice subtle changes in how you speak. Common issues include:

• Slight lisping or slurred speech
• Difficulty pronouncing certain consonants like “s,” “f,” or “th”
• Changes in tongue placement due to the shape and size of your new dentures
• Increased saliva production as your mouth adjusts to the appliance

These adjustments are normal and usually temporary. Your muscles, tongue, and lips simply need time to adapt to the presence of the dentures.

Tips for Adjusting Your Speech

Here are some practical tips to help you speak clearly and confidently with your new dentures:

1. Practice Reading Aloud
Spend a few minutes each day reading aloud. Start with simple sentences and gradually increase the complexity. This helps your tongue and lips get used to the new positioning required to articulate words clearly.

2. Speak Slowly and Clearly
At first, it may help to slow down your speech. Speaking too quickly can cause words to slur or sounds to be mispronounced. Over time, your speed will naturally return to normal.

3. Use Repetition for Problem Sounds
Focus on words or sounds that are challenging. Repeat them slowly and deliberately to train your mouth and tongue. For example, saying “thirty-three” several times in a row can help adjust tongue placement for the “th” sound.

4. Strengthen Your Tongue and Lip Muscles
Exercises like pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth, smiling broadly, and saying vowels clearly can help build muscle control. This strengthens the oral muscles needed for precise speech.

5. Start in Comfortable Settings
Practice speaking in private or with supportive friends or family. As you gain confidence, gradually practice in public settings to improve comfort and clarity.

Being Patient with the Adjustment Period

Most patients adjust to speaking with dentures within a few weeks. During this time, small frustrations are normal, but consistency and practice are key. Avoid removing your dentures out of embarrassment; wearing them consistently helps your mouth adapt faster.

If you experience persistent speech difficulties, discomfort, or irritation, consult your dentist. They can check the fit and make adjustments to improve comfort and functionality. Properly fitted dentures not only improve speech but also prevent sore spots and long-term issues.

With time and patience, talking with dentures becomes second nature. Before long, your speech will feel natural, and your smile will feel completely comfortable.

About the Practice

At Parkside Dental, Dr. Moneyhun and our caring team are dedicated to helping patients enjoy fully functional and comfortable dentures. From custom fittings to practical guidance for everyday use, we provide personalized care to help you speak, eat, and smile with confidence.

Call us at (864) 800-1691 or request an appointment online.