Doing speech therapy and getting dental treatment can also improve this type of lisp.
Both lateral and palatal lisps are considered more severe than interdental and dentalized lisps. You may need to try several different treatments for lateral and palatal lisps to cope with them well.
You can also practice saying “s” and “z” sound words like “recess,” “bicycle,” and “zipper. ” Repeat these words 10 to 20 times so you can work on saying “s” and “z” sounds properly. While these speech therapy exercises are designed for children, they can be used by adults as well.
For example, you may say “s” and then “a” or “z” and then “a. ” You can then try saying “a” and the “s” or “a” and then “z. ” Try blended syllables by saying “a” “s” “a” in a row, followed by “a” “z” “a” in a row. You can also say words like “sax,” “pass,” and “lease. " Break them up into syllables and say each syllable slowly.
Words like “bin” and “fin” are also good ones to practice the butterfly technique with. Practice this technique 10 to 20 times. Try to maintain the butterfly shape to your tongue.
You can also try to drink all liquids through a straw on a regular basis to help train your tongue to pull back and to improve your lisp.
Ask your primary care doctor for a referral to a professional speech therapist. You can also look online for a professional speech therapist. Joining a support group can also help you connect with people who are experiencing similar difficulties. [10] X Expert Source Devin Fisher, CCC-SLPSpeech Language Pathologist Expert Interview. 15 January 2021.
You may need to then get the appliance refitted as you get older so it still fits your mouth correctly. Your orthodontist may suggest that you do speech therapy as well to improve your lisp.
If you are writing a speech, avoid words that are hard for you to say aloud. Replace them with easier words or work around them so you do not have to worry about your lisp getting in the way of your presentation. Take this as an opportunity to expand your vocabulary. If you have a hard time saying a particular word, find an alternative that works better for you.
Doing this can help to diffuse the situation and make you feel less self-conscious about your lisp. It can also show others that you are still confident despite your lisp and are not deterred by your speech impediment.
You may choose positive affirmations that do not contain “s” or “z” sounds so your lisp does not come out when you say them. This may help you feel more confident. In addition to saying your affirmations out loud, try writing them down and posting them somewhere where you will see them regularly. Read them to yourself occasionally as you go about your day.
Your list could include things like important relationships in your life, accomplishments you have made, good experiences you have had, or a few of your own positive qualities. A gratitude list is also a good way to celebrate your accomplishments as you work on your speech. Keep track of any progress you make, and write down good experiences. When you feel discouraged, you can look back at these notes and remind yourself that you can do it!
If you’re interested in learning something new or improving your skills at something you’ve already tried, consider signing up for a fun class. Even hobbies that you can do by yourself, like knitting or gardening, can help you feel relaxed and take your mind off of things that you’re feeling anxious about.
Spending time on social media can make it especially tempting to compare yourself negatively to others. Remember that when you scroll through your Facebook feed, you are only seeing the parts of your friends’ lives that they choose to share. Remember, a speech doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. It’s just something that you’re going through. [16] X Expert Source Devin Fisher, CCC-SLPSpeech Language Pathologist Expert Interview. 15 January 2021.
Offering to do a favor for a friend. Doing something to brighten a stranger’s day. Volunteering to help needy people in your community.
Getting 7-9 hours of sleep every night. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fresh vegetables and lean proteins. Getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. [18] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source