Did your child get braces over the summer? Maybe you think they’d benefit from braces, but you are hesitant to move forward since your little one plays the flute, clarinet, or saxophone. Whatever the case may be, you’ll be happy to know that playing musical instruments with braces is definitely possible! There will, however, most likely be a learning curve. Luckily, your child’s adjustment period will be significantly shorter with these four must-know tips.
#1. Offer Them Dental Wax
One downside of braces is that the metal brackets and wires can rub up against the soft tissue in your child’s mouth, resulting in irritation. This issue is often exacerbated with children who play wind instruments due to the pressure of the mouthpiece against their lips. Fortunately, that’s where dental wax comes in! This thin, flexible, water-resistant material can be placed on the sharp edges of their braces, protecting their lips and gums – a few small pieces should do the trick.
#2. Encourage Them to Change Up Their Routine
Whether your child has been playing a musical instrument for a few months or a couple of years, they’ve likely developed some muscle memory. Since braces can disrupt this, it’s natural for your little one to feel discouraged at first. However, this could be a great opportunity to build a new, better routine! From changing up their tongue placement to exerting more breath, the new habits your child develops with braces may end up improving their ability and talent.
#3. Remind Them That Practice Makes Perfect
As mentioned above, it’s natural for your child to feel a bit discouraged during the initial adjustment period. During times like these, it’s important to remind them that practice really does make perfect. Plus, dedicating a few extra hours a week to their craft will speed up the learning curve, ensuring they will be back to playing beautifully and easily again in no time.
#4. Push Them to Ask for Help
Children are one of the biggest age groups with braces, so it’s extremely likely that one of your little one’s peers has gone through or is currently going through the same thing. So, encourage them to ask for help! If they are in the school band, they can ask a fellow student. If they have individual lessons, they can ask their teacher for their tips.
Playing a musical instrument is a great way for your child to express their creativity, learn about discipline, and build a community. Fortunately, braces won’t get in the way!
About the Author
It was watching his own sister’s physical and emotional transformation with braces as a child that inspired Dr. Sam Alkhoury to be the skilled, caring orthodontist he is today! After graduating with honors from Boston University, he completed a residency in Advanced Education in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at New York University. Now, he has nearly three decades of experience helping patients of all ages address misaligned teeth and bite issues. If you think your child would benefit from braces, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 508-757-3173.