Musical Instruments and Braces

The holiday season is filled with family, food and of course, music.

Chances are you have listened to your favorite holiday songs and carols or taken in a holiday concert this season.

Which leads us to a question:

Can you play a musical instrument while wearing braces? The answer is Yes! But you might have to make a few adjustments.

While some minor adjustments may be needed for you to keep playing your instrument, braces should not keep musicians from making beautiful music.

At M. Scott Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics in Destin and Panama City Beach, we offer the latest in orthodontic care for children, teens and adults. And we will be happy to discuss any questions or concerns you have if you play a musical instrument.

To learn more, or to set an appointment, contact Runnels Orthodontics today.

Various musical instruments call for a variety of musical techniques. Some instruments call for the use of mouth pieces, and these can come in different sizes. Where mouth pieces are positioned as you play also can vary, depending on the instrument.

Braces, whether they are located on the upper or lower teeth, can affect how you play.

The good news is your orthodontist and your music teacher can help you develop the adjustments in technique you need to continue making music, and do so with as much comfort as possible.

Sometimes a mouth guard can be used to help protect your braces. Mouth guards also protect soft tissue in your mouth and reduce the risk of injury.

Your bite will change as your orthodontic treatment moves forward, but you should be able to continue playing your instrument without constantly adjusting your technique.

Typically, as your smile continues to improve, small changes needed for you to keep playing your instrument should happen naturally.

Mouth guards require the biggest adjustment. It may take you a few days to get mouth guard placement just right, so it feels comfortable.

This may be discouraging at first, especially for younger musicians, but stick with it. You can make the needed adjustments to keep making music. And your braces will come off before you know it!

Remember that the temporary inconvenience of wearing braces now leads to a lifetime of positive benefits for your dental and overall health.

Straight teeth means there are fewer areas for plaque to grow. This build-up causes dental decay and can lead to gum disease later in life.

Don’t let wearing braces keep you from playing an instrument and making beautiful music.

At Runnels Orthodontics, we can help you with tips that will keep the music playing. And we hope you stick with your instrument, and play for decades to come! Remember, making small adjustments now can make a huge difference in the rest of your life.

And from our family at Runnels Orthodontics to yours, Happy Holidays! We hope to see you soon!