Having a tooth out or not will it effect playing.

nasxxx · Post by **nasxxx** » Sun Aug 26, 2007 7:00 pm

I know this is gonna sound silly, but just something im pondering over. Got a tooth that really needs to come out, question is if it does come out will this effect the tone at all on the flute. I'm in two minds having it out replaced with a gold one, or just leave a gap.

Edit:- for got to say one of the middle back ones.

flutepicc06 · Post by **flutepicc06** » Sun Aug 26, 2007 7:03 pm

It really depends on where the tooth is located, I would think. If it's a front incisor, it could change how the air flows near the embouchure, or (depending on how you place your flute and form an aperture), may actually change the flute's placement in relation to your aperture or the aperture itself. If it's a molar way in the back of your mouth, I would not expect any change. It's probably best that you discuss this with your dental professional before having anything done....They'll probably be better able to advise you.

fluttiegurl · Post by **fluttiegurl** » Sun Aug 26, 2007 7:10 pm

I have had dental work and have also dealt with students who have had dental work (one was surgery to correct a misaligned jaw and another with a severly damaged front tooth that was removed). Just like anything else, with proper guidance and practice you should not have any major problems. It is just a matter of getting used to it. Unless your dentist is a flute player, he/she is unlikely to be able to offer much if any sound advice. Mine refuses to do any major work on me because he knows what I do for a living and sends me to a specialist if I need any extensive work. I appreciate his honesty.

nasxxx · Post by **nasxxx** » Sun Aug 26, 2007 7:12 pm

In that case might be ok as It's one of the back "molar's" two up from the end. Will be having a word to the dentist see what they suggest what options are avaiilable.

john101 · Post by **john101** » Sun Aug 26, 2007 8:21 pm

If it's where you indicated, it shouldn't cause a problem playing. However, you should never leave a tooth missing, because the tooth above/or below it will continue to push out because there is no opposite tooth to stop it. Thats why an orthodontist makes sure that every upper tooth is touching a lower tooth. When the remaining tooth pushes out far enough, over several years, it will gradually expose bone and then you will have another problem to deal with. Best option is to replace it with an implant, next best is a bridge and last option is a partial appliance.

John