IAG > 2026 Congress > 2026 Conference Program > Scientific Program > Phonetic Pretreatment Assessment
The Functional Envelope of Speech: Challenging Phonetic and Occlusal Assumptions
Time: 11:00 AM, September 12, 2026
Speaker: Dr. Roxann a Esquerra
Speech is often treated as a secondary functional domain in restorative dentistry—overshadowed by occlusion and seldom utilized as a true diagnostic tool. Classic prosthodontic literature is valuable but leaves many questions unanswered. Fortunately, neurophysiologic research offers additional insight into how speech and occlusion intersect. This presentation will unpack the bidirectional relationship and show how structured speech evaluation can inform restorative planning, refine occlusal design, and improve patient-centered functional outcomes.
Learning objectives:
- Review foundational prosthodontic literature to understand how classic concepts describe the functional envelope of speech and its relevance to occlusal morphology, vertical dimension, and anterior tooth position.
- Integrate insights from neurophysiology to recognize how speech production, motor control, and oral sensorimotor patterns inform our understanding of occlusal function and adaptive capacity.
- Apply a structured speech evaluation within restorative and prosthetic treatment planning to optimize esthetics, comfort, and function—using speech patterns as a practical diagnostic and verification tool.
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