Traditional metal braces have realigned smiles into healthier arrangements for generations, resulting in millions of patients enjoying the benefits that come with beautifully straight teeth. However, many people who use their mouths to play brass instruments such as the trumpet or tuba or woodwinds such as flutes and saxophones may wonder if these orthodontic appliances will interfere with their performances. Here’s a brief guide to acclimating to playing your instrument with traditional braces.
You May Need Some Extra Practice
Since you’re probably used to playing your instrument without your braces being there, you may need some extra time to get used to playing it while wearing your brackets and wires. While you can expect to experience some awkwardness or discomfort while playing for the first few days, this should diminish as you get more practice. You will also develop calluses inside your lips during the first week of wearing your appliance, so you may also have to get used to them feeling different. With time, playing your instrument will come naturally and easily again.
Use Your Dental Wax
Braces consist of metal wires and brackets that can sometimes irritate the surrounding cheek and lip tissues. If you find that your orthodontic appliance has an uncomfortable pointy edge, use dental wax to cover it up and protect your soft tissues from injury. This can prevent uncomfortable sores and abrasions that can make it more difficult to play a musical instrument.
Be Mindful of Your Braces
As you get more practice speaking, eating, and playing your instrument while wearing your braces, you should become increasingly aware of where your brackets and wires are. This will make it much easier to move your lips and tongue in such a way that prevents the appliance from irritating your soft tissues. If you wish to accelerate this process, try reading a favorite book out loud.
You May Need to Use More Breath
Many musicians who receive braces find that they need to use more breath while playing, and this may be especially true for those who play woodwinds. You may have to work on finding a better breathing pattern, but you will eventually get used to this adjustment as you get more practice.
Traditional braces can deliver remarkable results for even severe cases of misalignment. By sticking to your orthodontist’s instructions, you can keep the process as smooth as possible so you can continue to play your instrument beautifully.
About the Author
Dr. Frances Hamman earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Creighton University in 1991 and her degree in orthodontics from Case Western Reserve University in 1993. She is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. Her office in Ripon offers traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners, and interceptive orthodontic treatments. To learn more about adjusting to wearing braces, contact her practice online or dial (920) 748-7130.
