GETTING BRACES CAN BE VERY EXCITING! The promise of a beautiful, straight and healthy smile at the end of orthodontic treatment is more than worth the minor aches and pains that go along with achieving it.
We understand, however, that you may have some more in-depth questions about undergoing treatment depending on your unique circumstances or lifestyle choices. This is especially true of people who play musical instruments such as the flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone or other brass and woodwind instruments. We hope to answer some of your questions today!
Play An Instrument? Here’s What To Expect
Overall, we can say that there is no reason getting braces should keep you from playing the musical instrument of your choice. There will, however, be an adjustment period when you get your braces on, as well as when you get them off.
The adjustment period will vary from person to person and will differ depending on the instrument you play. Woodwinds, especially those with reeds like the saxophone and clarinet, are generally easier to get used to playing with braces, while brass instruments, like the trumpet and french horn, prove to be more difficult.
There are two things that should help you as you get used to playing your instrument with your new braces: using orthodontic wax and adjusting your embouchure. Put orthodontic wax on each bracket to protect your lips while playing.
As for adjusting your embouchure, we’re no music experts! But from what we’ve been told by patients who have had braces and play instruments, loosening your embouchure–or the way you apply your mouth to the mouthpiece of your instrument–can help make sure there isn’t so much pressure. We recommend working closely with your music teachers during the initial adjustment period so you can adjust your embouchure as needed and be comfortable while playing. And who knows… this experience may even help you become a better musician!
Take Care Of Your New Braces
We know how well you take care of your musical instrument. You clean it frequently and treat it with care and respect so that you can perform your best come concert or recital time. The same care is necessary for your braces and your teeth!
Brush your teeth morning and night and after meals. Don’t forget to floss at least once a day and avoid eating hard foods or candies that could break a bracket. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions and you’ll end up with that gorgeous, straight smile you’ve been waiting for!
Watch the video below for more tips on keeping your braces clean
Let’s Discuss Your Options
We know getting braces can be difficult, and even more so if you play a woodwind or brass instrument! We also understand that every person is unique. Come into our office and we can discuss all of your options such as other types of braces, like invisible aligners, or ways that our other patients have learned to deal with traditional braces while playing an instrument. It is our goal to make your orthodontic treatment as comfortable as possible!
Your smile deserves the very best. Thank you for trusting our practice!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Top image by Flickr user ACE Foundation used under Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 4.0 license. Image cropped and modified from original.
