Talking with Dentures: Tips and Tricks to Get Through Your Adjustment Period

Dentures are pretty amazing! Not only can they improve the appearance of your smile and enhance your ability to eat a variety of foods, but they can also help you speak more confidently. Before you get to fully enjoy their benefits, however, you will need to go through an adjustment period. What are some tips and tricks that can help you get used to talking with dentures? Read this blog post to find out.

How Dentures Initially Affect Speech

When you first receive your dentures, you might notice some changes in the way you speak. Certain words could sound different, and you may feel as if you have a slight lisp or extra saliva in your mouth. These changes happen because your oral structures are adapting to the new appliance, and your tongue and lips are learning how to work with it. The shape and position of your dentures can even alter how air flows as you talk, which can temporarily affect your pronunciation.

It is completely normal to feel a bit frustrated during this stage. Your muscles and brain need time to coordinate, so it is important that you exercise patience!

Getting Used to Talking with Dentures

Adapting to speaking with dentures takes practice, but you can make this process a little smoother with some helpful strategies:

• Read out loud every day to practice different sounds and words. Choose your favorite book or newspaper and focus on pronouncing challenging words clearly.
• Speak slowly and deliberately, especially during conversations. This will help you build confidence and reduce the chance of your dentures slipping.
• Try counting from one to one hundred out loud. This exercise will help your tongue and mouth adjust to the new movements required for speaking clearly.
• Bite down gently and swallow before speaking, which can help your dentures settle into place and improve your speech clarity.
• Stay hydrated by sipping water regularly. This can help you manage any extra saliva and keep your mouth comfortable.
• Practice in front of a mirror so you can watch your mouth movements and make adjustments as needed.
• If you feel your dentures shifting, visit your dentist for an adjustment. Comfort plays a big role in successful speech adaptation.

How Long Does the Adjustment Period Take?

Most people find that their speech improves significantly within a few weeks, but the exact timeline can vary from person to person. Factors such as the fit of your dentures, your previous dental history, and your overall health can influence how quickly you adapt. Some individuals adjust in as little as a week, while others may need up to a few months to feel completely comfortable.

Adapting to dentures takes time and effort, but with some practice and patience, it should not be long before you are speaking with clarity and confidence!

Meet the Practice

Dr. Henry Hsue is an accomplished dentist who is a member of several prestigious organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Washington State Dental Association. He has gained advanced skills in many areas of his profession, including the design of high-quality dentures. If you have questions about what to expect with this form of tooth replacement, Dr. Hsue and our team would be happy to speak with you. Contact Annigan Dental in Bothell at 425-492-6898.