Dental Article
Will Dentures Affect My Speech?
For many residents in Alberta and British Columbia, choosing dentures is a life-changing step toward restoring a functional and beautiful smile. However, one of the most common questions our denturists at MyBite receive is: "Will dentures affect how I talk?"
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The short answer is: yes, temporarily. But with the right fit and a few simple techniques, you’ll be speaking clearly and confidently in no time.
Why Do Dentures Change Your Speech?
Speech is a complex coordination between your tongue, teeth, lips, and the roof of your mouth (palate). When you receive new dentures—whether they are complete dentures, partial dentures, or implant-supported dentures—your mouth needs time to adjust to the new "equipment."
Common initial changes include:
The "S" and "F" Sounds: You might notice a slight whistle or lisp when pronouncing "S" or "SH" sounds.
Increased Saliva: Your brain may initially mistake new dentures for food, increasing saliva production which can lead to "slurred" speech.
Clicking Noises: If the dentures shift slightly while you talk, they may create a small clicking sound.
Volume Control: You might feel like your voice sounds different or louder to you than it does to others.
How to Speed Up Your Speech Adjustment
At our MyBite clinics, we recommend several "speech therapy" exercises you can do at home to build muscle memory:
Read Aloud: Grab a book or newspaper and read out loud for 15 minutes a day. This trains your tongue to navigate the new space in your mouth.
Practice Challenging Words: Repeat words that contain "S," "F," "V," and "TH." (Try the classic: "She sells seashells by the seashore").
Bite and Swallow: If you feel your dentures slipping before you speak, give a gentle bite and swallow to reset the suction.
Sing Along: Singing requires different muscle movements than speaking and can help you get used to forming vowel sounds more naturally.
The Importance of a Professional Fit
While an adjustment period is normal, persistent speech issues can be a sign of an ill-fitting denture. If your dentures are too thick or loose, your tongue won't have the space it needs to articulate correctly.
At MyBite, we specialize in digital dentures and precision fittings to ensure your appliance feels as natural as possible. If you’re struggling with speech after the first few weeks, a simple denture reline or adjustment at one of our clinics can make a world of difference.
Visit a MyBite Clinic Near You
Whether you are looking for dentures in Calgary, Airdrie, or the Okanagan, MyBite is here to support your journey to a perfect smile. We proudly serve patients across Western Canada at the following locations:
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