Dental Implants Chicago

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Give back A Smile Program
www.givebackasmile.com

This is a national domestic violence program sponsored by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.   It was established out of desire to give something back to the community, specifically, to help victims of unfortunate circumstances.  This program has allowed Dentists to volunteer their talents to help survivors of domestic violence who have suffered damage to, or lost, their smiles in an abusive attack.  151 domestic abuse cases have been completed and there are currently 182 applicants that are being treated. “Restore a smile, restore a life.”

W.I.N.Program
www.womeninneed.org

The W.I.N. foundation is a non-profit organization for abused women and children.  The program was founded in 1955 by Dr. Tracy Kemble after she lived under the shame and secrets of domestic abuse.  Her experience made her realize the need for an effective abuse recovery program.

W.I.N. offers a 20 week abuse recovery program called Right Living.  This comprehensive program boasts of a 98% no repeat rate.  The program is available for as little as $10 a week to a person in need.

Domestic abuse currently affects 1 in 4 women in our society.  Abuse however, is not a disease, it is a learned condition.  Therefore, with proper education, the power to heal is within our reach.

Board member of the Edgebrook/Sauganash Chamber of Commerce

Committee chairman for Edgebrook Beautification

Board member of the Community Advisory Committee for WTTW

ENHANCING THE TRUMPET

Your ability to play the trumpet is directly influenced by the overall function of your mouth, teeth, and the muscles of your head and neck.  You may have developed a compromised style of playing to compensate for deficiencies in your mouth, and the muscles of your face.  The good news is that these deficiencies can be overcome and corrected.

From my readings and research the best playing position is to have the lower teeth align evenly with the upper teeth to make a barrier where the instrument’s mouth piece can comfortably rest without tilting up, down, or side to side.  With this optimal position the lips should be free to vibrate with the instrument pointing straight out.  Also, in order for the embouchure to function at the highest level, the jaw needs to come forward at least a millimeter from and “ideal” bite position.  This “ideal” or Neuromuscular jaw position is different for everyone but it can be measured and applied to everyone’s unique physical makeup.

This Neuromuscular position is what truly can make the difference in horn playing.  By achieving the proper bite with your teeth, and the proper muscular position with your jaw the comfort, clarity, and range of your playing can improve.  Instead of looking for a magic “system”, or a special teacher to guide you look at the physical limitations that have become part of your inefficient playing.