5 Tips for Talking with Dentures

Getting dentures is a big step toward restoring your smile, chewing ability, and confidence. However, many new denture wearers notice that speaking feels a little different at first. You may find yourself lisping, mumbling, or feeling self-conscious about how your voice sounds. The good news is that this adjustment period is temporary, and with a bit of practice, you can regain clear, natural speech. Here are 5 tips to help you talk confidently with your new dentures.

1. Practice Speaking at Home

Like learning any new skill, speaking with dentures gets easier with practice. Spend time reading aloud at home to get used to how the dentures feel and sound. Try reading books, singing along to music, or reciting tongue twisters to strengthen your speech muscles. The more you practice in a comfortable setting, the more confident you’ll feel when talking with others.

2. Slow Down Your Speech

When you first start wearing dentures, you might feel like your words sound different. Speaking too quickly can make it harder to pronounce certain sounds clearly, especially “s” or “f.” Slow down your speech and focus on enunciating each word. With time, your tongue and lips will adapt to the new shape of your mouth, and your natural pace will return.

3. Bite and Swallow Before Speaking

Dentures can sometimes shift slightly when you talk, especially if they’re new. Before speaking, gently bite down and swallow to help set the dentures in place. This simple habit reduces movement and improves clarity, allowing you to speak with more confidence.

4. Strengthen Facial Muscles

Your tongue, lips, and cheeks play a big role in clear speech. Doing simple oral exercises can help strengthen these muscles and improve control over your dentures. For example, practice saying words that use challenging sounds (like “sixty-six” or “fifty-five”) or hold a smile while saying short sentences to work your cheek muscles.

5. Visit Your Dentist for Adjustments

If you’ve been practicing but still have difficulty speaking clearly or notice your dentures clicking or slipping often, schedule a follow-up with your dentist. Sometimes, even a small adjustment to the fit can make a big difference in comfort and speech. Well-fitting dentures should stay secure when you talk, laugh, and eat.

Talking with dentures may feel awkward at first, but with practice, patience, and proper fit, your speech will soon feel natural again. By practicing at home, speaking slowly, stabilizing your dentures before talking, and keeping up with dental checkups, you’ll be able to communicate clearly and confidently in no time.

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth J. Canzoneri earned his dental degree from the Northwestern Dental School. He opened his private practice in Arcadia shortly after and has been serving our patients here ever since! In addition, Dr. Canzoneri tours the country and lectures on cosmetics and laser dentistry, and he has published several articles in local newspapers. Today, he stays current in his field through memberships in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Southern California Academy of General Dentistry. If you’re in the market for dentures, schedule an appointment with us online or call our office at (626) 446-1679.