Tips- Avoiding Mouth Noise

I am going to touch on a rather “dry” subject. It’s not pretty, but so very important for voice overs.
In Southern California, or anywhere else it can get really dry sometimes… Even heating and air conditioning can do a real number on ambient humidity, and on body parts, like your mouth. V/O peeps like myself have to worry about fine details -like avoiding mouth noises.  Remember, a good mic shows no mercy!

I go for the apples, especially those slightly acidic—-Granny Smiths are perfect. Also  water, water, and more water- I drink it all the time. Water hydrates your body from the inside out….. When recording many times, I drink warm water with a little honey and lemon. Chamomile  or decaf tea are also great for everything from pops & clicks to keeping the vocal chords warm, loose, and clear sounding. When I am in a situation where those items are not available, or for a fast fix to dry mouth, I suck on a Weight Watcher’s sugar free candy called “Fruities”. Passion fruit or lemon are the absolute best. I have a supply in my purse and next to my studio mic. I have also been trying out Biotene Oral balance dry mouth moisturizer. When all else fails, keep recording. Hydrate, Open your mouth, and then swallow. Open the mouth again, stick out your tongue, open and loosen the oral cavity….then continue recording the script.   Whenever you start hearing the noise, stop and “reload” (water etc.)- sometimes, you just end up having to edit around the end or beginning of words. It’s a pain, but for quality, it’s a must. If clicks are happening in mid- word….. take a break. It could be possible that you just need a rest, and a diversion.