The face that speaks, the voice that sings: the triad of orthodontics, music, and aesthetics

Abstract

This interdisciplinary study explores the triadic relationship between orthodontics, music, and aesthetics, with a central focus on how dental alignment influences musical articulation and stage presence. Grounded in embodied performance theory and articulatory phonetics, the research investigates how malocclusion affects vocal clarity and how orthodontic treatment contributes to the refinement of both speech and visual aesthetics—two crucial components in musical performance and media representation. Through a musicological lens, the study examines how pronunciation, resonance, and articulation—especially of fricatives such as/s/, /ʃ/, and /z/—impact vocal performance quality. Emphasis is placed on the performer’s body, particularly the mouth and face, as a site where musical expression, social aesthetics, and public image converge. In contemporary music culture—especially within media-driven environments—facial harmony and clear enunciation are vital not only for artistic output but also for the construction of professional identity. Using a qualitative comparative model, the study examines two case studies of performers from Kosovo who underwent multi- year orthodontic treatment. Audio recordings and clinical photographs were captured before and after intervention, using consistent conditions in a professional music studio and dental clinic. The data were analysed to identify phonetic improvements and changes in facial aesthetics relevant to performance. Findings reveal a marked improvement in vocal articulation, projection, and stage image post-treatment. Participants reported increased confidence and expressive ease, underscoring the dual role of orthodontics in enhancing both musical function and aesthetic presence. This supports the thesis that orthodontic treatment can directly affect artistic performance, especially in vocalists and wind instrumentalists whose craft depends on precise oral mechanics. The study contributes a novel interdisciplinary model that links dental health to music performance and public aesthetics. Future research should broaden sample sizes, engage phonetic and aesthetic experts, and examine long-term effects. Collaboration between orthodontists, phonologists, and music educators is essential for optimising artistic outcomes in a media-saturated cultural landscape.

Keywords

• singing
• orthodontics
• sound analysis
• aesthetics
• stage performance

Supporting Institution

University of Pristina; UBT College; AAB College

Project Number

1

Ethical Statement

Although formal approval from a university ethics committee was not required for this study, all ethical protocols were strictly followed. Written consent was obtained from all participants involved, as well as from the institutions where the research was conducted. Specifically, signed written permissions were secured from: Alba Dent inclusion of orthodontic treatment. Barok music studio, authorization for the use of their facilities for pre- and post-treatment audio recordings. Both participating individuals, who provided informed consent for being recorded and for the use of their data strictly for academic and research purposes. All signed documents are archived and available upon request.

Thanks

After this study, we would like to express our deep gratitude to our colleagues and experts in their respective fields who provided valuable support and advice throughout the research process. Special thanks go to the team at Barok Sound Studio, whose assistance and dedication were crucial to the realisation of this study. We are also grateful to our colleagues and professors from the University of Prishtina and UBT College for their valuable guidance and support. Our sincere appreciation extends to our associates from AAB College, as well as to the wonderful staff of the Dental Clinic “ALBADENT” for their continuous support. Finally, we warmly thank all the participants in our research – the patients – whose participation made this study possible.

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