Listening to old records without using our ears may sound pretty silly. But according to science educator Sam Haynor, this is possible using cheap material and one body part whose original function is far from auditory-our teeth. Yes, he said that using our “mouth grinders” in listening to records is as pleasurable an experience as using our ears. This is called the Tooth Phonograph.
To prove that his experiment is factual and feasible, Haynor chose an old record and place it in a turn table. He traced the record on a cardboard sheet. Afterward, he used an X-Acto knife to cut out the circle with an X in its center. Then, he attached the needle using a wooden skewer to “bite” the record. Vibrations come up the skewer as it goes to the teeth and jaw while the needle moves over the grooves of the record. He said that the brain interprets it as sound. However, he warned that playing music through our skull can give us an unsettling effect.
Haynor then removed the pencil’s metal eraser holder, and slid it through the X. It created an inch of the pointy end protrudes. Rubber bands were used around the pencil to stop to it from sliding. Secure the needle to the end of the skewer with tape.
Next, he threaded the record onto the pencil, and placed it at the top of the cardboard circle. He also set the pencil’s point on a flat surface, and twisted it for the record to spin. He bit the stick as he gently lowered the needle so the record can catch a groove. He adjusted the pressure as he angled it until he heard music in his head. The Tooth Phonograph can detect resonance, vibrations and sounds. It costs around $0.50, and 15 minutes to set up. Aside from being used to listen to old records, the teeth, if brushed properly, is said to prevent heart attacks
