Braces are the tried-and-true solution for straightening smiles and have a proven track record of success. Your orthodontist can address everything from minor gaps to severe misalignments with traditional brackets and wires.
However, many patients who play certain instruments, such as woodwinds or horns, wonder whether getting braces will interfere with their musical abilities. If you’re worried that the brackets and wires might stop you from playing, continue reading to learn about 3 tips that might help!
Tip #1: Use Orthodontic Wax
Although standard orthodontics are incredibly effective, the corners of the square brackets or sharp ends of the wires are notorious for jabbing the insides of your lips and cheeks. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to maintain a proper embrasure when pressing your lips to your instrument, which forces the metallic material against the tender tissues inside your mouth. Some patients even develop blisters or sores after practicing for longer periods of time.
Orthodontic wax is a simple and effective way to prevent this, so you can continue to toot your horn. Placing a small amount over troublesome areas, particularly in the front of your mouth, can help you remain comfortable during rehearsals.
Tip #2: Be Aware of Changes
Every musician knows that practice makes perfect, but you’re used to playing your instrument without braces on your teeth. It can take a while for your tongue, lips, and the other muscles and tissues in your mouth to adjust to their presence. In that time, you might notice certain changes, like that you might have to rest your tongue in a new position to avoid sharp metal. It’s also common for musicians to realize that they will need to use more air to play with braces in place, which involves additional diaphragmatic breathing.
Being aware of such sensations can help you find new ways of doing things so you can continue to produce the sound quality you’re accustomed to.
Tip #3: Spend Extra Time Practicing
Another way to acclimate to playing your instrument with braces is to do it more frequently! Playing instruments requires a lot of muscle memory that’s built up through repeated practice over time. Making the necessary changes may require that you rebuild a solid foundation with braces in place. You might need to refamiliarize yourself with some basic skills, which will likely require some extra time and effort on your part.
Fortunately, it’s completely possible to continue playing your instrument with braces, but you might have to make some adjustments to accommodate your orthodontics!
About the Practice
Patients at Serenity Orthodontics benefit from a team of experts eager to help them enhance their smiles by improving their dental alignment. Dr. Podray-Donovan, Dr. Lewis, and Dr. Pelt are each highly accomplished, and they collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of orthodontic services to meet your family’s unique needs, including traditional braces. Their caring approach is combined with state-of-the-art technology to deliver beautiful, accurate results. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling one of their conveniently located offices near you!