IS YOUR CHILD A MUSICIAN? When the stage lights are on and the curtain goes up, teeth are probably the last thing on both of your minds. However, there are some dental concerns particular to instrumentalists that we feel it’s important for you both to be aware of:
Make Sure That Instruments Are Properly Sanitized
Bacterial infection can result from improperly cleaned instruments. When musical instruments (especially brass and woodwinds) are shared across the school, there’s concern for cross-infection. Microbes can make kids sick, causing anything from rashes, to allergies, to increased risk of tooth decay.
Microbes can live in instruments for weeks or even months after the last use. Always take instruments apart and clean them properly, and brush your teeth twice a day to interrupt the development of harmful oral bacteria.
Dry Mouth And Nervous Performers
Ever felt your mouth go dry as a desert right before a performance? You’re not alone. It’s a common reaction when we’re nervous, and it can be especially annoying for musicians who need saliva to play instruments properly.
Saliva is also important for dental health. It acts as a natural cleanser and helps protect the teeth against bacteria and harmful acids.
Some musicians keep candy, mints, or gum nearby to deal with dry mouth. However, sugary products can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially when saliva production is reduced. Chewing or sucking on something to stimulate saliva flow is a good idea, but it’s best to choose sugar-free gum or sugar-free sweets. Keeping a bottle of water nearby can also help refresh the mouth and wash away sugars and acids.
For children who play musical instruments or experience dry mouth, regular dental check-ups are important to protect their developing teeth. Our team provides pediatric dentistry in Southampton, helping children maintain healthy teeth and gums through preventive care, oral hygiene advice, and routine examinations.
Encouraging healthy habits such as drinking water regularly, limiting sugary snacks, and attending regular dental visits can help children enjoy their music while keeping their smiles healthy and strong.Preserve Dental Health To Protect The Music
A musician’s embouchure is an essential element for a beautiful performance. This refers to the shape of the mouth against the instrument, and it’s affected by anything from the muscles in the mouth, to the fit of the teeth, and overall dental comfort.
We care about each of our patients and we want to make sure that we’re giving your child the best care, and catering to their situation and habits. When we know about your child’s passions, habits, and extracurricular activities, we’re more able to provide personalized, effective care.
Thanks for your trust in our practice. We love serving your family!
Image by Flickr user H. Michael Miley used underCreative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 license. Image cropped and modified from original.