Klarinet Archive - Posting 000903.txt from 1997/12

From: George Lin <glin@-----.org>
Subj: Re: Student with braces
Date: Sat, 20 Dec 1997 23:40:11 -0500

On Thu, 18 Dec 1997, sue wrote:

>
> One of my students just got braces this past week. I know prior to
> getting them he was wondering how this will affect his playing and was
> quite worried. I never had braces and don't know from experience what
> this does to someone's playing/embourchure. Is there something I could
> help with when teaching? What problems could occur that I should watch
> out for? I would love to hear some suggestions and feedback.
>
> Sue Sipos
>
>
Sue, I had braces for 2 years recently, and I don't think there is
anyhting that will hinder your student from playing. The only thing I
can think of is getting used to the "feel". Sometimes the metal bands
can get uncomfortable with the lips, but a handy supply of wax solves
this problem. I asked my orthodontist initially about any potential
problems, and he said that I should be able to keep on playing.
Incidentally, after the braces are off, the plastic retainers makes a
good lip cushion and helps in not "biting" the mouthpiece.