Can You Play Musical Instruments With Braces?

According to the National Association of Music Merchants, 54% of households have someone who plays at least one musical instrument. So, it’s not surprising that one of the most frequently asked questions from children and teens is whether or not they will be able to play while wearing braces in Mt. Vernon. Since even clear aligners take some adjusting to, it’s not surprising that this is a common concern. Fortunately, you can play musical instruments with braces! To help make the transition seamless, read on for three tips.

Tip #1. Put in a Few Extra Hours of Practice

For patients who play instruments like the trombone or trumpet, adding braces into the mix can feel uncomfortable at first. However, after a few weeks, calluses will build up on the inside of your mouth and the soreness will subside. In the meantime, putting in a few extra hours of practice can help you adjust to the brackets or aligners.

Tip #2. Ask Your Orthodontist for Wax

If you play a wind instrument that puts pressure on your braces, which then leads to painful sores on the inside of your lips, ask your orthodontist about dental wax. The gummy solution can be placed over the spots that rub against your gums to prevent discomfort and irritation. This can be especially helpful while the calluses develop in your mouth and you adjust to the braces.

Tip #3. Use This Time to Develop Good Habits

Your braces won’t require you to completely re-learn how to play. However, as you adjust to your new technique, your muscle memory is completely disrupted, which means you can actually perfect your skills and do away with previous bad habits. Just remember to be patient and gradually work your way up to your prior proficiency.

If you are looking to upgrade your smile, but don’t want to give up your musical instrument during treatment, it is important to know that you don’t have to! By using the above three tips, you can smoothly transition into playing with braces. That way, next year at this time, you can enjoy a jaw-dropping smile in addition to your impressive melodic skills!

About the Author

After graduating with the highest honors from the West Virginia University School of Dentistry, Dr. Timothy G. Wigal was inducted into the world-renowned Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society. Since then, he has obtained a certificate of specialty in orthodontics, a Masters of Science degree, and advanced training in the Six Elements of Orofacial Harmony. Plus, Dr. Wigal is a member of multiple reputable organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontics and the American Dental Association. If you are looking for an “orthodontist near me” in Mt. Vernon, visit his website!