In this rather uncommon topic, we will be discussing some oral conditions that rid people of clearly audible speech and how they can be managed by your dentist.
Although the voice originates from the voice box, it exits through the mouth. As such, the contents of one’s mouth can alter speech in various ways.
- A simple condition like missing teeth(edentulism) may affect the pronunciation of simple sounds like “s” and “z” resulting in them sounding as “th” especially when the front teeth are involved. Yes, in case you were wondering, this is the concept behind the song: “All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth”! (interspersed with whistles here and there). The good news is that missing teeth can be replaced! The treatment options range from removable prosthesis like dentures through to fixed replacement methods like implants and bridges
- Tongue tie(Ankyloglossia) is a condition where a band of tissue attaches the underside(ventral surface) of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, restricting tongue movement. This may affect speech, swallowing and feeding generally. Indeed, there is a case which made the news, of a presumably dumb toddler who instantly began speaking after the surgery to release the restricted tongue(frenectomy) was performed.
- Large tongue, technically known as Macroglossia, may present as a lisp in the speech of its bearer. A person having macroglossia may also snore and have stridor(high pitched breathing sound). It may be clinically detected by obvious indentation on the sides (lateral borders) of the tongue possibly with improper arrangement of teeth known as malocclusion. This lisp may be corrected by speech therapy or even tongue reduction surgery if indicated.
- Interestingly, dental appliances themselves can alter your speech significantly. New dentures, orthodontic appliances etc may present with this challenge and may be overcome by practicing reading aloud. It usually corrects with time.
- People with cleft palate, dentg be managed by your dentgistsignificantly. Dentures, orthodontic appliances etc n surgery by a may also present with a nasal tone of voice. This can be managed surgically by a Maxillofacial surgeon(a specialised dentist) in conjunction with orthodontists, pedodontists(other specialised dentists) and other medical specialists as indicated.
Needless to say, tiredness, stress, anxiety, alcohol, medications, throat infections etc can affect your way of speaking and reversing these would invariably reverse any resultant speech defect.
Recently, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, facemasks have played a major role in muffling speech and making it unclear to the listener. If it is absolutely necessary to take down your mask during a speech, do well to maintain social distancing for everyone’s safety.
Conditions which affect the brain and speech mechanism like migraines, cerebral palsy, Parkinsons, dementia, traumatic brain injury, etc may require a multidisciplinary approach involving Neurologist, Speech therapist, ENT specialists etc for effective management of patients affected.
Now, amidst all the excitement, eating and partying that comes to celebrate the end of the year, let us remember to adhere to the COVID-19 protocols and maintain good oral hygiene- that is a win-win!