New Veneers and Lisping: Why Your New Veneers May Cause a Slight Lisp at First
Porcelain veneers can transform an otherwise average smile into a smile that attracts attention. However, at first, you may struggle to comfortably pronounce certain words, especially when it comes to the "s" sound. You may find yourself with a temporary lisp. But don't fret. This doesn't mean that your veneers were not fitted properly or that they are anything less than advertised.
Just like wearing a new pair of shoes for the first time, your body will need to adjust to the shape and feel of your new veneers.
Muscle Memory Plays a Part
Muscle memory, which is really "motor control memory", in that your brain stores information about how to perform a certain action or movement, is part of the reason that veneers might at first cause a slight lisp. Basically, your tongue, which is a muscle, is not used to the presence of the veneers on your teeth. Although the difference in thickness is minute to the naked eye, your tongue can detect even the slightest change in the structure of your teeth or mouth.
This slight difference, no matter how small, can cause a temporary lisp. You might at first struggle to pronounce the "s" and "v" sound without lisping. Fortunately, just as your tongue adjusted to your new teeth when you were a baby, it will eventually adjust to your new veneers. However, your cosmetic dentist can make adjustments if needed.
Veneers Thickness Can be Adjusted
If your veneers feel a little bulky or thick, you can go back to your cosmetic dentist and have them reduce the thickness. All it takes is for the occlusal edge, the part your tongue comes into contact with when making the "s" sound, to be slightly thicker than usual, for a lisp to develop.
Go back to your cosmetic dentist and within 10 minutes and for no extra charge, they can correct the issue.
Practice Makes Perfect
A slight lisp after the placement of veneers is not something new. In fact, whenever a new dental restoration such as a dental crown, veneer, or orthodontic appliance such as a brace is added to teeth, an adjustment period is necessary. If even after your dentist has adjusted your veneers, you still find yourself struggle with certain words, practice by reading out loud in the comfort of your home.
It also helps to identify the particular type of words you struggle with, such as words ending in "th" or beginning with "s". You can then write a list of these words and practice pronouncing them over and over until your tongue gets used to the slight change in your mouth.
If your veneers are causing you to lisp, contact your cosmetic dentist and have them adjust the length or thickness so you can enjoy your new veneers without worrying about a lisp.
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