Playing a musical instrument is a great way to express oneself and showcase one’s talents. However, it can be challenging for those who wear braces, especially when it comes to playing the clarinet.
Proper embouchure is key to playing the clarinet, and wearing braces can make it difficult to achieve the right mouth position, causing discomfort and pain.
Fortunately, playing the clarinet with braces is not impossible. With a few adjustments and some patience, anyone can learn to play the clarinet without discomfort or pain.
There are several tips and tricks that can help those with braces play the clarinet more comfortably, including using a lip protector, orthodontic wax, and scheduling regular appointments with an orthodontist.
It is important to note that there are many myths surrounding playing musical instruments with braces.
Some people believe that playing the clarinet with braces is impossible or that it will cause damage to the teeth or mouth. However, these are just myths, and with proper care and attention, anyone can play the clarinet with braces without any negative consequences.
Playing Clarinet with Braces: Tips and Techniques
Adjusting to Braces
Playing a musical instrument with braces can be challenging, especially for clarinetists.
It is crucial to adjust to the new feel of the braces before playing for an extended period. To do this, clarinetists can practice soft long tones in the lower register to adjust to how their embouchure feels with braces.
It is also essential to take frequent breaks and not push oneself too much to avoid a sore mouth. If one experiences severe pain or discomfort, they should stop playing immediately and consult their orthodontist.
Choosing the Right Reed
Choosing the right reed is crucial for clarinetists with braces.
A harder reed can be beneficial as it requires less lip pressure, which can help reduce discomfort. However, it is essential to find the right balance as a reed that is too hard can make playing more challenging.
It is recommended to experiment with different reeds to find the one that works best for you.
Protecting Your Mouth and Braces
Playing a clarinet with braces can be uncomfortable, and the braces can cause irritation to the lips and cheeks.
To protect the mouth and braces, clarinetists can use a lip protector or orthodontic wax.
These products can help reduce irritation and make playing more comfortable. Some clarinetists also use Ezo Denture Cushions to provide extra padding for their braces.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is crucial for anyone with braces, including clarinetists.
Playing a wind instrument can increase saliva production, which can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay if not addressed. It is essential to brush and floss regularly and use a mouthwash to maintain good oral hygiene.
Clarinetists should also clean their instrument regularly to combat increased condensation, which can lead to bacteria build-up.
Common Myths About Playing Clarinet with Braces
Myth: Braces Will Interfere with Playing the Clarinet
One common myth about playing clarinet with braces is that the braces will interfere with the player’s ability to produce a clear and consistent sound. However, this is not necessarily true.
While it may take some time to adjust to the feeling of the braces in the mouth, most players are able to play the clarinet just as well with braces as they did before.
Braces may cause some discomfort or soreness at first, but this is usually temporary and will disappear as the player becomes more accustomed to wearing them.
Myth: You Can’t Play a Wind Instrument with Braces
Another common myth is that braces will prevent a person from being able to play any wind instrument at all.
This is also untrue. While it may take some time to adjust to the feeling of the braces, most people are able to play wind instruments with braces just as well as they did before.
According to Orthodontic Associates, “it is a myth that you won’t be able to play your woodwind or brass instrument while you’re wearing braces.”
Myth: You Need to Change Your Embouchure with Braces
Finally, another common myth is that a person needs to change their embouchure (the way they position their lips and mouth on the mouthpiece) when playing clarinet with braces.
While it is true that the braces may feel different in the mouth, most players are able to continue using the same embouchure they used before getting braces.
Your embouchure should not change significantly with braces. Your lips should still be placed over your teeth and the mouthpiece should rest on your lower lip.
Overall, while it may take some time to adjust to the feeling of braces in the mouth, most people are able to play clarinet (and other wind instruments) just as well with braces as they did before.
It is important to remember that everyone’s experience may be different, and it is always best to consult with a professional if you are experiencing any discomfort or difficulty playing your instrument with braces.
Tips for Orthodontic Wax and Ezo Denture Cushions
Playing clarinet with braces can be uncomfortable, but using orthodontic wax and Ezo denture cushions can help alleviate any pain or discomfort. Here are some tips for using these products:
- Always wash your hands before applying orthodontic wax to avoid introducing bacteria into your mouth.
- Roll the wax into a ball and apply it to any areas where the brackets or wires are causing discomfort.
- Use a small amount of wax, as using too much can cause it to fall off and become a choking hazard.
- If the wax falls off, replace it with a new piece.
- Remove the wax before eating, brushing, or flossing.
- Ezo denture cushions can also be used to provide additional cushioning and support for your lips and cheeks.
- To use Ezo cushions, moisten them with water and place them over the brackets or wires that are causing discomfort.
- Replace the cushions as needed throughout the day.
Conclusion
Playing clarinet with braces can be uncomfortable at first, but it is possible to adapt to the feeling and continue playing with proper technique. It is important to take extra care in maintaining good oral hygiene and protecting the braces while playing to avoid any damage or discomfort.
Using orthodontic wax or a special plastic cover can help alleviate any discomfort caused by the braces rubbing against the lips or cheeks. Gradually increasing practice time and starting with softer tones in the lower register can also help the player adjust to the new feeling of playing with braces.
Overall, with patience and practice, playing clarinet with braces can be successfully accomplished. It is important to consult with a dentist or orthodontist if any persistent discomfort or issues arise while playing with braces.