What Are Earmolds, and How Do They Work?

Over 30 million citizens in the United States alone experience hearing loss or reduced capacity to hear. While there is no cure for hearing loss, you can find relief by using specialized hearing devices.

Earmolds are widely used by billions of people worldwide because they are excellent at their work. Which helps you to hear better. But you may not know much about earmolds. So here is what you need to know about one of the most effective devices for hearing loss.

What is an Earmold?

An earmold is a small device that fits in your ear. It is connected to your hearing processor via a cable and transmits the audio signals. There are two types of earmolds you can choose from.

Hard earmolds

Hard earmolds are made of plastic hardened with UV radiation for smoothness and scratch resistance. These are better for mild hearing loss and fit comfortably inside your ear.

Soft earmolds

Softer earmolds are better for those experiencing severe hearing loss. The reasons are that the resin material allows for a snugger fit inside your ear with an acoustic seal.

Of course, which one you choose is up to you. But your hearing instrument specialist (HIS) will recommend a model based on the better option for your specific case.

How Your Earmold Works

An earmold is essential for helping to ensure your hearing returns to normal or reasonable levels. Fortunately, we have somewhat perfected the technologies that enable us to make the best device for your condition. An earmold works by fitting it into your ear in a tight yet painless way. First, the mold is attached to a hearing processor that interprets audio. It then sends it through a cable and into the earmold like a tiny speaker. Because the earmold is so close to your eardrums, you can hear sounds you would otherwise miss, and it prevents feedback.

The Making of an Earmold

Earmolds are excellent for restoring your hearing. But it isn’t simply a case of picking one off the shelf and taking it home. Like a fingerprint, the inner and outer shapes of everyone’s ears are different. So what works for one person doesn’t work for another. Therefore, you must have an earmold custom-made. Your ear mold is made from an impression of your inner ear, usually taken by your hearing instrument specialist. This process ensures you get the best fit for your ear, whether it’s a hard or soft mold. Otherwise, it would often fall out because it’s loose.

How to Use an Earmold Properly

Your earmold is designed to fit perfectly into your ear and yours alone. Therefore, you should not allow anyone else to use it. Also, you might have difficulty inserting a new earmold if you aren’t used to it. Here are some valuable tips for inserting your earmold correctly:

1. First, make sure your earmold is clean and dry before inserting it.
2. Grasp the bottom of the earmold with the markings facing upwards.
3. Pull your ear gently upwards and back, like you would for standard earplugs.
4. Rotate the device slightly, so it matches the contour of your ear.
5. Gently insert the device into your ear by pushing and following the natural shape.

It can be tricky to insert your earmold the first few times. But with a bit of practice, you will have trouble at all. However, if you find you cannot fit it properly after a few tries, or it doesn’t fit well, you can see your specialist. However, you should also look after your hearing device.

Cleaning and Caring for Your Device

Because a hearing device and earmold fit into your ears, they can become grimy, dirty, and damaged. Biological matter like hairs, earwax, and sweat can build up. In addition, this can cause mold and bacteria. Therefore, looking after your device is essential to maintain its life and your health. Fortunately, it’s easy to clean an earmold. Simply disconnect the cable and mold from the processor. Then gently wash in warm, soapy water until any excess dirt is gone. If you aren’t confident in doing this, then a hearing instrument specialist can do it for you.

What We Can Do for You

At The Center for Better Hearing, we specialize in helping you help yourself. First, our hearing instrument specialists will take an impression of your inner ear and have an earmold custom-made for you. From there, we offer expert advice, aftercare, and regular appointments for the best hearing care possible. To learn more about our services, contact one of our team members by calling: 510-768-7091.