Jaw Surgery and Speech Patterns: What to Expect

Your speech patterns are determined, in part, by your jaw and bite. If you’re having jaw surgery in Valencia, CA, we’ll look at what you can expect after the procedure.

Speaking After Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery can encompass several different procedures brought on by anything from aesthetic concerns to poor oral function. Here are a few common denominators when it comes to your diction, sounds, and tongue placement:

Realignment: When your jaw is out of alignment, the teeth may not meet, limiting how your tongue moves. Once the surgery is over, your sounds may be clearer because your tongue has a greater range of motion.
Bite: An overbite or underbite can lead to lisping. Once the jaw surgery has corrected the bite, the lisp may disappear.
Coordination: Your speech is more than just your vocal cords. The tongue, lips, and teeth all need to function as a team if you’re going to articulate your thoughts properly. Jaw surgery can improve all of these elements so that they can coordinate with one another.
Tongue: Your tongue may change position after surgery, which will mean adjusting to a slightly new configuration. The changes are slight for most people, but you may have to alter your speech patterns on certain words to ensure they come out properly.
Temporary Effects
If you’re wondering how your speech patterns will be affected directly after the surgery, the temporary effects may lead to swelling in the muscles and tissues. You may also have temporary nerve damage or irritation, weakening your tongue or lips.

Find Oral Surgeons in Valencia
It’s not always easy to schedule surgery, particularly if you’re not experiencing significant discomfort. However, the longer you live with a misaligned jaw, the more likely it is to interfere with your life. The right oral surgeon in Valencia, CA, can give you more information about how your life will change if you choose to proceed with the procedure.

At Heritage Oral Surgery & Implant Centers, with locations in Canoga Park, Valencia, and Palmdale, our staff is here to answer all your questions so you can make the right decision.