Getting braces will change much more than your smile, it will also temporarily change your diet and your oral hygiene regimen. But will it impact your ability to play musical instruments as well? It’s a fair question, especially if you play a wind instrument. The good news is that the answer is “no.” Of course, there will likely be a slight learning curve, but you can keep reading to learn a few must-know tips to help!
Tip #1: Apply Dental Wax
At the beginning of your orthodontic treatment, you may find that your brackets and wires rub up against your gums and the inside of your cheeks, causing irritation. This can be especially uncomfortable if you’re playing an instrument like the flute or saxophone due to the pressure being placed against your mouth. Luckily, there is a solution: dental wax. Simply break off a small piece, roll it into a ball, and place it over any sharp or protruding edges.
Tip #2: Use More Breath
The presence of your braces may require you to make a few adjustments, like switching up the placement of your lips. Many musicians find that using more breath is necessary as well. This slight change may be inconvenient at first, but it can ultimately enhance your craft, even after you get your brackets and wires removed!
Tip #3: Practice, Practice, Practice
One of the biggest tips you can implement is practice, practice, practice. The best way to build up your proficiency and master your craft is to dedicate plenty of time to it. This is especially important if you have a recital or performance coming up. Even dedicating an extra 30 minutes to an hour a day can make a big difference!
Tip #4: Consider an Alternative, like Invisalign
Traditional braces are one of the most reliable and effective teeth-straightening treatments available, but they aren’t the only one. Alternatives, like Invisalign, can be enticing for musicians since the clear aligners can be removed, allowing you to play as you usually would. Note: the 22-hour-a-day wear time is a necessity. So, you need to be mindful of how long you have your trays out. Otherwise, you can quickly fall off-track with your treatment plan.
While it’s true that having braces requires a few adjustments, it’s important to know that it doesn’t mean you’ll have to give up playing musical instruments. With practice, you’ll be back to your normal proficiency in no time!
About the Practice
Our team at Simply Orthodontics is here to help you get the straight teeth, healthy bite, and beautiful smile you desire. We don’t want you to have to give up your favorite activities, like playing musical instruments, in the meantime, which is why we strive to help make life with braces as stress-free as possible for each patient. If you have a question about what you can and can’t do with braces or you’d like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (508) 943-2100.