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Talking With Braces

When you get braces for the first time you will experience a number of changes including with how you speak. Here, our Okotoks dental team shares some information about how you can get used to talking with your braces.

The most important thing to keep in mind if you are struggling with talking when you get new braces is that everyone goes through this with orthodontic treatment.

Most people have some degree of difficulty with speaking once their braces are put on. It's very natural, and with a little perseverance, you'll be able to get over it fairly soon.

Here are some of the things to consider when you are trying to adjust to your orthodontic treatment:

It Won't Be Like This Forever

To begin with, you will most likely experience strange sensations as a result of your orthodontic equipment, which will make it difficult for your tongue and other oral and facial structures to move as naturally as you are used to when you speak. You will adjust with time though as you get used to the new positioning.

Get in Touch With Complete Communication

You may want to consider taking some time to become familiar with the entirety of the communication process in order to help you better covey yourself while you adjust.

First and foremost, it is interesting to understand how practically every part of your body contributes to your capacity to communicate, but it will also provide you with some important tools to help you go back to speaking the way you are accustomed to doing.

Ask Your Orthodontist About Wax For Your Braces

Orthodontic wax should act as a barrier between your braces and the inside of your cheeks, preventing them from rubbing together. This aids in the prevention of friction and can also make it easier to talk more comfortably. This wax can also help prevent some of the pain you may feel on the insides of your cheeks due to the braces rubbing.

Practice Talking With Your Braces

Practicing speaking with braces is one of the most significant steps you can take toward becoming used to doing so. You can try singing, speaking, or reading aloud to yourself, or even speech exercises (you can find some free ones online) to improve your communication skills.

It may be beneficial to perform this exercise in front of a mirror or even on video so that you can more quickly identify your trouble regions and sticking points. You could also try recording yourself to study it and learn where you could use with changing your tactics.

Take Your Time When Talking

Placing braces on your teeth can help you slow down your speech and concentrate on your pronunciation and enunciation. In the short term, this should allow your mouth to become acclimated to the braces, and in the long run, it should help you to become a more effective public speaker in all situations.

Be Sure to Stand Up Straight

All of these factors contribute to the mechanics of speech: standing up straight and tall, shoulders relaxed and back, and chin up. Proper posture positions the diaphragm and larynx in such a way that your natural rhythms and best pitch might be obtained when speaking. The act of taking deep breaths in through your nose until you feel your stomach extending all the way out is a great method to calm your anxieties as well!

If you would like to learn more about how to make the transition to braces easier, contact our Okotoks orthodontists to request a consultation.

We Are Always Welcoming New Patients 

Are you searching for an orthodontist in Okotoks or the Foothills Region? We are happy to accept new patients at our clinic. Contact us to book your first appointment today.

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(403) 995-7709