mouthpiece

Mouthpiece denotes several related concepts: a component interfacing with the mouth of a player or user; a dental or protective appliance; and a figurative term for a spokesperson or channel of representation.

In brass instruments, mouthpieces consist of a rim, cup, throat and backbore; the lip plate rests against the rim as the player buzzes into the cup. Cup size and shape, along with backbore, influence resistance, tone and range. Woodwind mouthpieces, used by clarinets and saxophones, hold a vibrating reed against a facing. They are made from ebonite, plastic or metal and vary in tip opening and facing length, which affect response, articulation and intonation.

In dentistry and sports, mouthpieces include protective devices worn inside the mouth. Occlusal guards and bite splints address grinding or jaw tension; athletic mouthguards cushion blows to teeth and jaws. Fit, material and hygiene are important for effectiveness.

In language, a mouthpiece can denote a spokesperson or official representative for an organization; the term can be neutral or pejorative depending on context.

Care and maintenance: instrument mouthpieces are cleaned and not shared; dental and sports mouthpieces require regular cleaning and replacement per professional guidance.