Getting new dentures can be a life-changing experience. They restore your smile, improve your ability to eat, and boost your confidence. However, one of the biggest challenges new denture wearers face is learning to speak clearly and comfortably again. At first, you might notice that certain words sound different or your dentures feel slightly loose when you talk—but with time and a little practice, it becomes second nature. Here are 5 helpful tips for talking confidently with dentures.
1. Practice Speaking Slowly and Clearly
When you first start wearing dentures, your tongue and mouth muscles need time to adjust to the new shape and feel. Speaking too quickly can cause your dentures to shift or make it harder to pronounce certain sounds. Instead, slow down your speech and enunciate each word clearly.
Reading aloud from a book or magazine is a great way to practice. Start with simple sentences, and if you stumble over certain words, repeat them until they sound natural. Over time, your mouth will adapt, and your speech will feel more effortless.
2. Exercise Your Facial Muscles
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue all play important roles in speaking. When you get dentures, these muscles must learn to work with your new prosthetic teeth. Gentle facial and tongue exercises can help you regain control and coordination.
Try saying challenging words that include “s,” “f,” and “th” sounds—these are often the trickiest when adjusting to dentures. Reading out loud or practicing tongue twisters in front of a mirror can also help you see how your mouth moves and make corrections as needed.
3. Use a Small Amount of Denture Adhesive
If your dentures feel like they shift when you talk, a small amount of denture adhesive can provide extra stability and confidence. Adhesive helps hold your dentures securely in place, especially while speaking or eating.
Be sure not to overapply—too much adhesive can make your dentures feel bulky or uncomfortable. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for the right type and amount of adhesive for your specific dentures. Over time, as your muscles adjust, you may rely on it less.
4. Bite and Swallow Before Speaking
One simple trick for stabilizing your dentures before speaking is to bite down gently and swallow. This helps seat your dentures firmly against your gums, creating better suction and control. Doing this before a conversation can prevent unnecessary shifting or clicking noises.
If you notice persistent clicking or slipping even after practicing, it could be a sign that your dentures need an adjustment. Your dentist can easily make small modifications to improve comfort and fit.
5. Be Patient and Keep Practicing
Like any new skill, speaking with dentures takes time and persistence. Don’t get discouraged if you experience a few awkward moments in the beginning. Consistency and patience are key.
Start by practicing in private—read aloud, sing along to music, or chat with family members who can offer supportive feedback. The more you use your dentures, the faster your mouth will adapt. Within a few weeks, most people find that speaking feels completely natural again.
Adjusting to dentures can take a little practice, but with these 5 tips, you can regain your natural speech and confidence in no time. Speak slowly, exercise your mouth muscles, use adhesive when needed, stabilize your dentures before talking, and most importantly, be patient with yourself. Before long, your dentures will feel like a natural part of you and you’ll be smiling and speaking with ease once again.
About the Practice
At Frandsen Dental of Orem, we have a tried-and-true traditional fix for tooth loss with dentures! Our high-quality materials make for beautiful and lasting results, and prosthetics are customized for each patient. That’s not to mention our implant dentures if you’d like an extra snug and stable fit for your prosthesis. We’ll make even the emptiest smiles full again and raise your quality of life. Schedule an appointment online or call (801) 224-7900.