Ear Molds

An ear mould is a vital component of any behind the ear hearing aid since it forms the connection between the ear and hearing aid. Ear moulds are the most important factor in the inhibition of acoustic feedback (whistling sound heard when sound escapes from any part of the hearing aid and then re-enters the hearing aid microphone to be amplified again). Sometimes, there is an inadequate seal between the ear mould and the ear. Inhibition of acoustic feedback can be achieved by varying the style of the ear mould and the materials used for the manufacturing of the same.

Ear Mould Makes

Ear mould materials can be very broadly divided into two types: hard materials and flexible materials (sometimes known as soft materials). The material chosen for ear moulds is determined by balancing the need for the mould to be comfortable with the need to inhibit acoustic feedback.

All hard-body ear molds require sanding and polishing to facilitate insertion in the canal and for cosmetic purposes. The surface of soft ear molds is treated chemically for these same reasons. These finishing techniques may slightly alter the outer dimensions of the ear mold. To compensate for this, ear mold laboratories build-up ear impressions by coating them with wax before fabricating the ear molds.

Fabricated Ear Molds

It has generally been believed that softer ear molds are more effective in ensuring an acoustic seal in the ear canal which greatly minimizes feedback. There have been efforts to fabricate ear molds with thermoplastic material. This type of material expands at body temperature within minutes after insertion into an ear. While some people benefit from these self-sealing ear molds, others do not.

Ear Molds: The role of Audiologists

A custom mold of the ear extends beyond the second bend of the ear canal and should be taken by an audiologist. First the audiologist otoscopically inspects the ear canal for wax, debris or disease. A cotton or foam block is carefully placed near the eardrum and silicone material is injected into the canal to find the shape of the ear. The ear impression is then sent to the manufacturer where the shell is cast and the electronics installed.

These days, there are also custom made ear moulds for mobile users. These are sought-after by people who pay more attention to the possible radiation hazards from mobile phones and also by others who find remote earpieces uncomfortable. These ear moulds are made of silicone or polyvinyl.

At Ultimateears.com we offer custom and standard ear plugs, monitors and accessories for onstage/offstage and personal use. Our UE custom line or our SuperFi standard line of products will generate pristine accurate sound production for a total new listening experience. All of our products will produce a clearer, louder, more precise sound without causing harm to the consumer's ears.