From the lisp caused by a new retainer to the whistling of air breathed through missing front teeth, there are many ways speech can be impacted by dental conditions. Some are an easy fix—remove the retainer and the story of Sally’s seashell stand becomes a lot clearer—while other speech impediments can require a different approach. Here’s what you need to know about how your smile can impact your speech.

Tooth, Tongue and Jaw Placement

Overbites, crooked teeth and tight jaws are examples of a few orthodontic situations that can cause various speech-related issues. While an overbite is a primary cause of a lisp or whistle, jaws or teeth that restrict tongue movement can cause slurring or other problems. Certain sounds, for example, require tongue-to-tooth contact. The wrong placement could prove difficult for someone trying to pronounce “t,” “s” and “ch” consonants.

Adjusting to Dentures Can Be Challenging

It’s interesting to note that artificial teeth can also cause communication issues. Experts recommend taking time to adapt to wearing dentures or veneers. Speaking slowly, swallowing more frequently and practicing tongue twisters can help the wearer become familiar with (and eventually overcome) common challenges. Other speech issues can include things like clicking teeth or an abundance of excess saliva. Similar difficulties rings true for those with braces, palate expanders and other aligner options.

Replacing Missing Teeth is a Must

While having a missing tooth or teeth can be embarrassing, the aesthetic appeal should be the least of a person’s worries. In addition to impacting the health of any surrounding teeth, the jaw will endure the consequences of bone loss over time, which can make chewing increasingly difficult. Missing teeth and a weaker jaw can also change a person’s ability to articulate speech. Spitting, slurring and lisping can all become more prevalent.

Dental Professionals Offer Specialized Care

Whether a patient struggles with word formation due to improper jaw placement or would simply like to replace a missing tooth before it impacts their speech, a trip to the dentist’s office should be a top priority. Dental professionals are equipped to identify issues and customize a treatment plan that best suits your needs. Before considering speech therapy, schedule an appointment with your dentist to learn how oral adjustments could help resolve these issues. It won’t be long before a previously perturbed patient is proud to proclaim the parable of Peter Piper’s pickled peppers.

Want to know more about correcting conversational difficulties? Our friendly staff at Tigard TenderCare Dental is happy to answer any questions you have and can provide a a wide array of treatment options. This team of professionals approaches every exam with compassion and gentleness to ensure a positive experience. Whether you’re still stumped about how missing teeth can impact dental health or simply want more information about correcting an overbite, Tigard TenderCare Dental has you covered!