Hello, just a quick question;

How much of an effect can braces have on playing?

We've had several topics on braces (dental braces, not the kind that Brits use to hold up trousers). The long and the short of it? They affect playing a lot. They require some adjustment in your playing so you don't injure the inside of your mouth.

Different kinds of braces present different problems. I won't go into them here.

Talk to your orthodontist about what you are about to go through. There are several different things you can do to minimize the negative effects of braces.

The light at the end of the tunnel is that when you are finished with the braces (3-5 years) you will find that your playing will improve dramatically.

I had braces back in the early 70s. After my first week of marching band my nickname was "hamburger lip". When not marching, i got used the braces and still progressed musically. I don't remember a big adjustment required when I got them off.

Lots.