OT-Braces and musical instruments

[hezreck]

My DD will be joining band in a year or two and we were discussing what instrument she wanted to play. She said a trumpet. She doesn't have braces now, but the dentist has said she will need them in the future. Not sure when yet. Can you play a trumpet with braces or does she need to pick an instrument that doesnt press on your lips? I was in band for for 8 years and played the clarinet and flag corps. I guess I never thought about braces and if any kids had them in band. So, anyone with experience about this let me know. Thanks!

 

[susykt4]

I played trumpet in band and used it as an excuse not to get braces. My teeth aren't terrible and I will probably never HAVE to get them (I'm 34) but I sure regret not letting my parents pay for them when I was 14

There were many trumpeters with braces at my school. They didn't seem to have any issues with having braces and playing. I vaguely remember my friend using some kind of wax on days we practiced for hours and hours. It didn't seem like anyone had any problems. I just didn't want braces and my mom didn't especially want to pay for them so playing trumpet was a convenient excuse for both of us.

 

[pigget74]

My DS started band this year and he got his braces in December. THe first few days he had to get used to them, but now it is not even a problem--except when he gets them tightened.

 

[PlutoPony]

DS got braces last week and went from the ortho directly to his trumpet lesson (not great planning on mom's part ). He said it felt funny but could still play. Now a week later he's adjusted fine and it's not a problem - at least he's not using it as an excuse to not practice! His trumpet teacher said there is a mouthguard that you can get if it really bothers them - a plastic type piece that fits just over the teeth and protects the lip. If your DD can start playing the trumpet a little before getting braces it might be an easier adjustment to the instrument, but overall I think she'll be fine. Btw, he started playing the trumpet in September so it's not like he's played for years....

 

[MAGGIED]

Both of my kids play instruments and both have recently had their braces off. DD plays flute (is Drum Major for Marching Bnad though) and DS palys alto sax, soprano sax and a little trumpet... no problem with the braces

 

[hezreck]

Thanks everyone for your replies. My DD is happy that she can still play the instrument that she wanted.

 

[arielsleepingbeauty]

I have played the flute, clarinet and the trumpet when i had braces over 20 years ago. I didn't have any problems. I imagine with technology now, braces are much less bulky. Maybe I am wrong since i haven't seen the new look of braces. I wish your DD many happy years with her instrument.

 

[tigger1972]

I'm an orthodontist and I have patients that play all instruments. There are no restrictions - just use wax until you get used to the instrument.