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Re: Anyone developed a "TMJ disorder" from playing the clarinet

Author: Bob Bernardo
Date: 2018-07-16 08:17

Ouch...

I can't offer any advice because you already got some really good advice.

If you have TMJ perhaps you've had it for awhile? Do you bite down when tense with your teeth or at night do you grind your teeth? A dentist should be able to tell if you are unaware at night.

I'd say to cut way down on your practicing until you see a dentist. When you do practice really try to play with a double lip embouchure and a patch on the beak of the mouthpiece, but don't put the patch too far forward. The patch should be around where your teeth are. Play some low tones like E, F, F# and G. starting at ppp < F > ppp to get the feel of this. You surely don't want the upper lip to hurt, nor the lower lip. A nice relaxed feel.

Clarinet playing should be fun, and you may just need some embouchure adjustments.

TMJ sucks. Try to get it under control with a night guard, possible medications for a short time like muscle relaxants.

Please keep us posted. This is a subject that could help out many.

Designer of - Vintage 1940 Cicero Mouthpieces and the La Vecchia mouthpieces

Yamaha Artist 2015

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