How to Get Used to Talking With Partial Dentures

Partial dentures replace missing teeth. Like any foreign device in the mouth, it can take time to adjust to their presence. People often initially experience difficulty talking with them in their mouths. Here are some tips to get used to talking with partial dentures.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Partial Dentures
• Books
• Water
• Video Camera

1. Practice reading aloud to yourself. Pay close attention to your pronunciation, pacing and diction.
2. Correct any issues that you hear as you read aloud. Try reading the same paragraph several times aloud until it sounds right to you.
3. Massage your gums. This will help release tension and promote circulation. As a result, your partial dentures will feel more at home in your mouth.
4. Drink lots of water. When partial dentures are new, your mouth's moisture balance may be off-balance. Sip water often to avoid dry mouth. Doing so also removes excess saliva.
5. Videotape yourself speaking. Watch the video, and assess how you sound and look while speaking. Correct any issues you see or hear.

Tips & Warnings

• Any changes in your speech likely sound worse to you than anyone else. Most people won't notice the slight vocal changes that you do.
• Speak aloud to yourself frequently. The more you talk, the sooner you'll get used to your new partial dentures.
• If you experience extreme issues with speaking due to your partial dentures, see your doctor.