Easy Tips and Tricks for Talking with Dentures

If you’ve recently invested in dentures, you probably can’t wait to pop your new teeth into your mouth. Your dentist will use advanced technology and the best materials to create a close replica of your real teeth. Although they will look natural, it can take time to adjust to your new smile. Many patients have difficulty talking with dentures at first. Here are a few tricks and tips to adjust to speaking.

Practice Makes Perfect

If you’re new to dentures, they will feel foreign when wearing them for the first few days. You’ll have to learn how to chew and talk. Your gums, jaw, and muscles will need to adapt to your replacement teeth. During this time, you might struggle to pronounce certain sounds clearly. You may even worry that your dentures are going to fall out. 

You don’t have to leave anything unsaid because you’re worried about the way you sound. Although it will take a few days, the saying is true – practice makes perfect. Here are some simple tricks to talk like a pro quickly:

• Consider an Adhesive: A denture is made to fit your mouth like a glove. It rests on top of your gum tissue and is held in place using suction or an adhesive. A well-fitting denture only requires suction to stay in place, but some patients enjoy the added security of an adhesive. If you’re worried about your teeth moving when talking, try a denture adhesive for added support.
• Read a Good Book: If you’ve been looking for an opportunity to read a good book, this is it. Reading aloud is a great way to practice saying common words. You will also learn how quickly you can speak without causing your words to sound slurred.
• Turn On Some Music: Like reading, singing is beneficial when learning to speak with dentures. Watch yourself in the mirror as you sing along with your favorite music to get accustomed to the way it looks and feels to talk with your new teeth.

Problem-Solving Common Complaints

Many patients experience concerns when learning to speak. Don’t let them discourage you from carrying on a conversation. Here’s how to problem solve common issues:

• Clicking When Speaking: Your dentures may feel a little strange, so your lips, tongue, or cheeks might try to “kick out” your new teeth. Slow down your speaking to keep them in place.
• Pronouncing S’s and F’s: As your mouth adapts, your S’s and F’s can sound slurred. Rest assured; the problem will resolve with practice.

You’ll be speaking clearly and confidently in just a few days. Give your mouth time to adapt to the new situation, and you’ll soon be talking without any concerns.

About Dr. Luciano Marini

Dr. Marini earned his dental degree at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He has completed extensive continuing education in many specialties, like tooth replacement. If you need dentures or partials, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.