…your trumpet, that is.
We’ve had music on our mind ever since we heard about the Downtown Lake Orion gazebo concert series. With concerts every Wednesday evening, it’s not hard to get out weekly arts fix. Of course, that set us to thinking about the talented musicians who make the concerts possible, and what being a musician means for oral health. Dr. Brad Greenfield shares helpful information for musicians considering cosmetic dentistry in Lake Orion, MI. By the way, you can click here for a full concert schedule and details.
How Is Dentistry Different for Musicians?
We all rely on our mouth to eat, speak, and express ourselves, but the mouth serves a special purpose for musicians, allowing them to play their musical instrument of choice. Every structure within the mouth—the tongue, jaw, and position of their teeth—impacts their ability to produce the right sounds. For those non-musicians amongst us, you might be surprised that musicians even have a special word for it: embouchure. It’s a complex relationship between these oral structures that allows for the ideal range, tone, and endurance needed to play brass or wind instruments.
What About Cosmetic Dentistry?
Any procedure that alters the size or shape of your teeth may change the way you play your instrument, so porcelain veneers or contouring may not be the most viable options. However, you may wish to consider dental bonding, which can repair very minor imperfections, such as a chipped tooth. Because you aren’t adding bulk to the tooth, you should notice no difference in your embouchure.
Dental Tips for Musicians
- Don’t be shy. If you’re a musician, don’t hesitate to tell us!
- It’s very helpful when our musically inclined patients explain exactly how they play their instrument and how it fits with various mouth structures – even if it means bringing your musical instrument to your dental checkup.
- We’ve also seen musicians who have a mold made of their mouth and teeth. If you ever experience a dental emergency, a mold is the best way to ensure that your dentist can restore the teeth to their original glory, preserving your embouchure.
Questions about cosmetic dentistry in Lake Orion, MI? To learn more about our services, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brad Greenfield, contact us at (248) 693-6213. We welcome patients living in Lake Orion, Clarkston, Royal Oak, and the surrounding cities.
