What is an earmold?
An earmold is a custom-made piece of plastic that is inserted into the ear canal to help hold a hearing aid in place and direct sound into the ear. Earmolds are typically made of acrylic or silicone and are molded to the individual’s ear canal.
What is the purpose of an earmold?
Earmolds serve several purposes, including:
- Holding the hearing aid in place. Earmolds help to keep the hearing aid in place and prevent it from falling out. This is important because hearing aids can be expensive and it is important to keep them safe.
- Directing sound into the ear canal. Earmolds help to direct sound into the ear canal so that the hearing aid can amplify it effectively. This is important because it ensures that the user gets the most benefit from their hearing aid.
- Sealing the ear canal. Earmolds can help to seal the ear canal, which can help to reduce feedback. Feedback is a high-pitched squeal that can be caused by sound waves bouncing back from the ear canal and being amplified by the hearing aid.
- Modifying the sound. Earmolds can be made with different filters that can modify the sound that is delivered to the ear. This can be helpful for people who have specific hearing needs, such as those who need to amplify high-pitched sounds or reduce low-pitched sounds.
Which is better: hearing aid dome or earmold?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best type of hearing aid attachment will vary depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. However, earmolds are typically considered to be more secure and comfortable than hearing aid domes. Earmolds also provide a better seal, which can help to reduce feedback.
Are ear molds safe?
Yes, ear molds are safe. They are made of materials that are non-toxic and hypoallergenic. However, it is important to clean ear molds regularly to prevent the buildup of earwax and bacteria.
Conclusion
Earmolds are an important part of many hearing aids. They help to hold the hearing aid in place, direct sound into the ear, and modify the sound. Earmolds are typically made of acrylic or silicone and are molded to the individual’s ear canal. If you are considering getting a hearing aid, be sure to talk to your audiologist about earmolds.