Will my speech change after getting dentures?

Yes, it is likely that your speech will change initially after getting dentures. You may feel that your speech sounds different or slightly strange, and it may take some time to adapt to the new dentures in your mouth. This is normal and common, and with practice, your pronunciation often improves and your speech returns to normal or nears normal levels.

Dentures are made to replace missing teeth, whether they are full dentures covering the entire upper or lower jaw, or partial dentures replacing one or a few teeth [1]. Having a new object in your mouth can temporarily affect how you form words and sounds.

Initial adaptation to dentures and speech

When you first get dentures, you may find that your tongue and lips need to adapt to the new situation. This may lead to difficulty pronouncing certain letters or sounds, or you might feel your voice sounds different. This feeling of unfamiliarity or difference is completely normal. It is important to remember that this adaptation takes time and practice [1].

Speaking aloud, reading books or newspapers to yourself, or even singing can help train the muscles of your mouth and tongue to adapt to the new dentures. The more you speak, the faster you will adapt and the more your pronunciation will improve.

Tips for improving pronunciation with dentures

• Regular practice: Dedicate time daily to speaking and reading aloud. Start slowly and focus on pronouncing each word clearly.

• Speaking in front of a mirror: Seeing yourself speak can help you identify any pronunciation problems and work on correcting them.

• Patience and perseverance: Do not get discouraged if you do not notice immediate improvement. Adapting to dentures is a gradual process.

• Talk to your dentist: If you continue to have significant speech difficulties or feel that your dentures move too much while speaking, it is essential to consult your dentist. The dentures may need adjustment or relining to ensure a better fit [3].

When should you consult your dentist?

If dentures do not fit properly, they may cause discomfort or irritation due to excessive movement [3]. This movement can affect your ability to speak clearly. In these cases, your dentist may recommend adjusting or relining the dentures. In some cases, your dentist might suggest using denture adhesives to help secure them and reduce movement [1]. However, adhesives should be used according to instructions; adding extra adhesive does not fix the root cause of an ill-fitting denture, and continuing to wear an ill-fitting appliance is what may lead to bone loss over time [2].

It is important to visit your dentist if dentures do not fit properly, as ill-fitting dentures can cause sores or inflammation [3]. Your dentist can assess the situation and make necessary adjustments or recommend other options, such as dental implants, which provide permanent fixation and help prevent denture movement [3]. For more information about types of dentures and how to care for them, you can visit Dentures: Types, Care, and When They Are the Best Option for You (Arabic).

Medical references

• Dentures
• Denture Adhesives
• Denture problems