Changes in Dento-Facial Morphology Induced by Wind Instruments, in Professional Musicians and Physical Exercises That...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Long-term wind instrument playing can lead to anatomical and functional changes in dento-facial structures and muscles.
• Both children and adults are susceptible to modifications in tooth positioning and facial morphology.
• Instrument type and playing techniques influence the extent of these changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of wind instrument use on dento-facial morphology and masticatory muscle activity.
• To identify breathing techniques and exercises that can minimize adverse effects.
• To differentiate muscle activity patterns between experienced and novice instrumentalists.

Main Methods:

• Review of studies examining the impact of wind instruments on masticatory muscle activity and morphology.
• Analysis of the role of specific breathing techniques in pressure redistribution and minimizing oral cavity changes.
• Identification of neck muscle toning exercises relevant to wind instrument players.

Main Results:

• Certain breathing techniques can improve stomatognathic system function and increase lung capacity.
• Neck muscle toning exercises can address overuse in wind instrument artists.
• Less experienced players show greater facial muscle engagement and potential strain compared to experienced players with optimized muscle activity.

Conclusions:

• Wind instrument playing significantly influences dento-facial morphology and muscle function.
• Preventive and corrective measures, including specialized breathing and toning exercises, are crucial for mitigating negative outcomes.
• Understanding muscle activity patterns can guide interventions for instrumentalists.