Braces truly are incredible. With the use of metal wires and brackets or clear aligners, they can gradually shift your teeth into a more aesthetically pleasing position, leaving gapped, crooked, and crowded teeth in the past. But what if you play a wind instrument? Will your orthodontic treatment hinder your ability to play? Fortunately, the answer is no. Read on for four tips for mastering musical instruments with braces.
Tip #1: Wax Up!
Orthodontic wax is designed to soften the edges of your braces, preventing them from irritating your gums and the inside of your cheeks. While it can be beneficial for all patients with braces, it is especially helpful for those who are getting back into playing a wind instrument. After all, placing the mouthpiece against your lips puts pressure on your braces and can potentially irritate the soft tissue in your mouth. Therefore, make sure to wax up before practicing!
Tip #2: Be Prepared to Use More Breath
As you adjust to your braces, you may find yourself clamping down harder on the mouthpiece. Initially, this may seem inconsequential. In reality, this small change may require you to use more breath until you acclimate.
Tip #3: Put In a Few Extra Hours of Practice
Whether you just started playing an instrument or are at a professional level, you know that practice makes perfect. If you are nervous about the adjustment period, consider putting in a few extra hours of practice. Not only will this build your proficiency, but it will also buildup the calluses on the inside of your lips. The result? You will feel less and less discomfort as you gain more and more confidence!
Tip #4: Consider a Metal Braces Alternative
If you have a large recital coming up or you are a musician for a living, then it may be worthwhile to consider an alternative to traditional braces, like Invisalign. After all, their clear aligners are equally as effective and completely removable. Just make sure to still wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day to stay on track with your treatment timeline.
If crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth are holding you back, then it’s time to consider braces. After all, they can completely transform your smile, and they won’t prevent you from playing musical instruments. So, contact your dental team today!
About the Practice
If you or a loved one is looking for exceptional orthodontic care, the latest in proven dental technology, and a world-class team, then you are looking for Hart Orthodontics! For years, Dr. Jim Hart and our entire team have used custom treatment plans and our years of hands-on experience to help patients of all ages in our community get the smile they’ve always dreamed of. Whether you are a new patient or a long-time friend, visit our website or give us a call at 817-645-2432 to schedule your appointment.