[Hora est. Malocclusion and playing a wind instrument].

Abstract

The interplay of all the muscles around the mouth when playing a wind instrument is called 'embouchure'. The teeth also play an important role, as they support the lips against which the mouthpiece is placed. Even a small dental procedure can have a major positive or negative impact on the performance of a wind instrumentalist. Severe malocclusions or craniofacial deformities (such as an oral cleft, large sagittal overbite, or severe crowding) should not discourage one from playing a wind instrument. Wind instrumentalists appear to be able to adapt to a sub-optimal condition, and even reach a (semi) professional level. While orthodontic treatment may offer improvement, it is difficult for a patient and the treating specialist to predict precisely what the effect will be on the playing ability. On the other hand, to estimate the effect of changing a tooth shape on musical performance, a mock-up can be made as a trial. Oral osteotomy poses a risk of nerve damage and change in sensibility of the lips, which can be disastrous for a wind instrumentalist.