Why Do Dentures Affect The Way I Talk?

Hello there! Thanks for reaching out. Let’s talk about why dentures might be affecting your son’s speech. When we first wear dentures, it’s quite common for our speech to change a bit. This is because dentures alter how the tongue and lips move within the mouth. Initially, your son might find it tricky to pronounce certain sounds, like ‘s’ and ‘th’, because the dentures create a new landscape in his mouth. Don’t worry—this is a typical adjustment period for newcomers to dentures.

Now, adjusting to dentures does take a bit of practice and patience. It might feel strange at first, but encouraging your son to speak as much as possible can really help. Try suggesting he reads out loud or narrates a story to family members. This kind of practice will help his mouth get used to the dentures, and in turn, it builds his confidence. It’s like learning a new skill—the more he uses it, the better he’ll get!

If speaking continues to be a challenge, it could be a sign that the fit of the dentures isn’t quite right. In these cases, visiting a dentist who specializes in dentures is important. They can assess whether everything’s aligned properly. Sometimes, a small tweak or an adjustment makes all the difference, or occasionally, a new set might be the best solution.

In the meantime, here’s what you can do to make this transition smoother. Encourage him to have soft, flexible foods, which can prevent any discomfort while speaking. Drinking warm teas can also help to soothe any irritation. It might be helpful to remind him to keep his mouth moist, as a dry mouth can make speaking even more difficult.

Finally, if he still finds it tough to speak clearly after trying all these tips, it’s wise to visit the dentist sooner rather than later. They’ll have personalized advice to help him speak comfortably, which will be a huge boost for his confidence, especially when communicating at school and with friends. All the best to you and your son on this journey!