Are Lingual Braces Better for People Who Play Wind Instruments?

A close-up shot of lingual braces on a woman’s teeth For musicians who play wind or brass instruments, orthodontics can pose unexpected challenges. Traditional braces can interfere with embouchure, cause lip discomfort, and affect performance quality.

If you’re a trumpet player, flutist, or saxophonist facing the need for braces, you may be wondering: Are there better options? For many, the answer is yes — lingual braces may be the ideal solution.

At Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, our orthodontists, Dr. Robert Rudman and Dr. Jeff Birg, understand musicians’ unique needs. With decades of experience, cutting-edge digital imaging, and efficient in-house services like indirect bonding for faster bracket placement, they craft personalized treatment plans that support your lifestyle rather than interrupt it.

What Are Lingual Braces?

Lingual braces are comparable to conventional braces in function, but they’re placed on the back side of the teeth, where they’re hidden from view. This makes them more discreet and comfortable for musicians who rely on lip-to-instrument contact.

Unlike traditional braces, which are attached to the front of the teeth and can irritate the inner lips, lingual braces leave the front surface of the teeth smooth and free. They reduce interference with mouthguards and make playing easier. They also require custom-made brackets to fit the contours of your teeth, which can lead to a more tailored experience.

How Do Lingual Braces Help Musicians?

Unlike conventional braces, lingual braces don’t create friction or pressure on the inner lips. For wind and brass players, this means fewer performance interruptions and less discomfort during long practice sessions. Key benefits include:

  • Preserved embouchure control
  • No interference with mouthpiece contact
  • Reduced risk of soft tissue irritation
  • Discreet appearance on stage and in daily life

While lingual braces may take a few days to get used to — mainly due to their proximity to the tongue — many musicians adjust quickly and find they can play normally within a short time.

Find Orthodontic Solutions That Fit Your Life

Choosing to straighten your teeth doesn’t mean sacrificing your passion for music. At Advanced Orthodontic Care, we tailor every plan to your lifestyle, whether that means using tools like AcceleDent to speed up treatment or offering convenient online scheduling for busy rehearsal days.

If you’re a musician who needs braces, lingual braces might be the right choice. Schedule a consultation at our Denver practice by calling or texting 303-331-0222 today. We’ll help you align your smile without skipping a beat.

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