Mouthguards help safeguard your teeth during sports, nighttime grinding, or other daily activities. If you’re searching for a dental clinic in SW Calgary, you’ve likely wondered, “Domouthguards affect speech?” Many people worry that wearing a mouthguard might make it hard to talk, especially in the first few days. Let’s explore what you can expect and how to make speaking more natural while wearing one.
Why Do Mouthguards Affect Speech?
Mouthguards cover your teeth and sometimes your gums. Because of this, your tongue and lips need to adjust to the extra material in your mouth. Some common changes in speech include:
- Slight lisp or slurring of words
- Difficulty pronouncing certain letters like “s” or “t”
- Feeling like your mouth is “full”
These changes are usually temporary and improve as you get used to the mouthguard.
How Long Does It Take to Adjust?
The adjustment period varies depending on the type of mouthguard and how often you wear it.
| Type of Mouthguard | Adjustment Time | Notes |
| Custom-fitted | 1–3 days | Most comfortable, easier to speak with |
| Boil-and-bite | 3–7 days | Requires moulding at home; may feel bulky at first |
| Stock mouthguards | 1–2 weeks | Usually thicker, harder to talk with initially |
Wearing your mouthguard regularly for short periods at first can help your tongue and lips adapt faster.
How to Improve Speech While Wearing a Mouthguard
If you’re asking how to improve speech while wearing a mouthguard, here are simple tips:
- Practice reading out loud – Start with short sentences and gradually increase.
- Talk slowly – This gives your tongue time to adjust.
- Do tongue exercises – Try pressing your tongue against your teeth while speaking.
- Use it during practice – If you wear it for sports, practice speaking while wearing it before games.
These small steps can make speaking clear and natural faster than you might expect.
Do Mouthguards Affect All Types of Speech?
Not everyone experiences the same changes. Factors that affect speech include:
- Thickness of the mouthguard
- Shape and fit in your mouth
- Your natural tongue position and how you speak
Mild changes in speech are usually temporary, and a dental clinic near you can help you adjust quickly.
Can Mouthguards Affect Breathing Too?
Many people wonder if mouthguards make it harder to breathe. The good news is that most properly fitted mouthguards do not affect breathing significantly. However, some tips can help you stay comfortable:
- Choose the right size – A mouthguard that is too thick can make breathing feel restricted.
- Practice wearing it – Start with short periods to get used to speaking and breathing with it.
- Use during light activity first – Gradually wear it while doing mild exercises before sports or heavy activity.
- Consult a professional – If you notice ongoing discomfort, a dental professional can adjust the fit.
By following these tips, you can protect your teeth and still breathe and speak comfortably.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard Near You
To find a suitable mouth guard near you, seek advice from a trained professional.
- Measure your teeth for a proper fit.
- Recommend the right type of mouthguard for your needs.
- Provide tips on adjusting and speaking comfortably
Having the right fit can reduce speech problems and make wearing your mouthguard more comfortable overall.
Bow Trail Dental—Helping You Speak Comfortably With Mouthguards
At Bow Trail Dental, we help you get a mouthguard that feels comfortable and fits your needs. Our team guides you on what to expect and how to speak clearly while wearing it. Whether it’s for sports, night grinding, or everyday protection, we make the adjustment simple.
Book your visit at Bow Trail Dental and enjoy a mouthguard that protects your teeth and lets you speak confidently. We make the process easy, comfortable, and stress-free.
📍 Find us easily on the Google map and plan your visit today!