4 Tips for Talking with Dentures

Getting used to dentures can take time, especially when it comes to speaking clearly and confidently. Many people notice changes in their speech at first, such as lisping or difficulty pronouncing certain words. The good news is that these challenges are usually temporary. With patience and practice, you can adapt quickly and speak comfortably again. Here are 4 helpful tips for talking with dentures.

1. Practice Speaking Out Loud

One of the best ways to adjust to dentures is to practice speaking as much as possible. Reading aloud, reciting poems, or repeating challenging words can help train your tongue and lips to work with your dentures. Focus on sounds like “s,” “f,” and “th,” which are often the most difficult at first. Regular practice speeds up the adjustment process and helps build confidence.

2. Slow Down Your Speech

When you first start wearing dentures, speaking more slowly can improve clarity. Talking too quickly may cause dentures to shift slightly, leading to slurred or unclear speech. Slowing down gives your mouth time to adapt to the new appliance and helps you enunciate more clearly. Over time, as your muscles adjust, you’ll naturally regain your normal speaking pace.

3. Keep Your Dentures Secure

Dentures that don’t fit properly can move when you talk, making speech more difficult. Make sure your dentures fit well and feel stable. If they feel loose or uncomfortable, schedule a dental visit for an adjustment. In some cases, a denture adhesive can provide extra stability while you’re getting used to them. Secure dentures help you speak with confidence and reduce clicking or slipping sounds.

4. Practice Proper Tongue Placement

Your tongue plays a major role in speech, and dentures can change how it interacts with your teeth and palate. Paying attention to where your tongue rests while speaking can help improve pronunciation. Practicing in front of a mirror can be helpful, as it allows you to observe mouth movements and make small adjustments. With time, your tongue will naturally learn the new positions needed for clear speech.

Be Patient with Yourself

It’s important to remember that adapting to dentures is a process. Mild speech changes are normal during the first few weeks. Avoid becoming discouraged, and don’t hesitate to practice in private until you feel more confident speaking in public.

When to See Your Dentist

If speech difficulties persist after several weeks, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist. Ongoing issues may indicate that your dentures need adjustment or relining. A properly fitted denture makes a significant difference in comfort and speech.

Talking with dentures gets easier with time, practice, and proper fit. By practicing out loud, slowing down, ensuring stability, and focusing on tongue placement, you can regain clear, confident speech and feel comfortable in everyday conversations.

About the Practice

Looking for an affordable solution to missing teeth? We have the answer here at Bear Creek Family Dentistry with dentures. We have both partial and full models to fit your specific needs. If you’re looking for a great fit guaranteed to last years or a lifetime, we feature implant dentures as well that are surgically placed in the jawbone. Whatever you like, we’d be glad to serve you. Schedule an appointment online or call one of our conveniently located offices in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.