Hearing and Balance

EAR MOLDS

Do you have a hearing problem?

If so, then you might be interested in learning more about ear molds. These small pieces of technology are designed to fit into the ear canal and help amplify sound for people with hearing loss. They’re used by millions of people around the world who want to hear better.

Ear molds can be worn all day long without discomfort or irritation, which is why they’re such an attractive option for many users. If you’re looking for something that’s comfortable and easy to use, then this is it!
Call or visit us at PA Center for Hearing and Balance if you’d like to learn more about these small yet effective devices that can make a big difference in your life.

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What is an earmold made of?

Ear molds are made of different materials, but the soft silicone variety is typically specially designed for children on account of their active lifestyle. Kids who need to wear ear molds are given the softer version, usually made of silicone. Most kids live a very active lifestyle and tend to jump around a lot, so the ears are more prone to be bumped and jostled. An ear mold made of soft material is more kid-friendly.

EAR MOLDS 101

Inside each ear, there is a small air chamber that transmits sound and protects the inner-ear. Hearing aids are designed to fit inside these air chambers. The type of hearing aid you wear depends on your preference in style: dome or ear mold. Dome hearing aids have one large piece that goes over the top of the ear, while with ear mold style, two pieces fit into your ears like eyeglasses.

If you want customized hearing solutions that offer unparalleled comfort, we highly recommend ear molds. From basic devices that resemble modern day ear plugs, to in-ear devices that fit comfortably on top of your ears just like headphones; there's always the perfect sound solution waiting for you here at PA Center for Hearing and Balance.

Dome style ear molds are named so because they look like small cones. This style cannot be customized to fit the unique shape of the human ear. Dome styles are stocked in standard sizes, which means that one size will be given and it will best fit the ear canal.

EAR MOLD MATERIAL

Ear molds vary in what they are made of and their difference can usually be felt even by hand.

ACRYLIC/LUCITE EAR MOLDS

Pros:
  • made of a flexible material that is easy to work with
  • have a glossy finish and can be cut to fit any shape or size
  • come in different colors, shapes, and sizes
  • more durable than acrylic
Cons:
  • can’t be worn for long periods of time because they are heavy
  • may cause skin irritation
  • may not fit well in your ears and fall out easily

POLYETHYLENE EAR MOLDS:

Pros:
  • made from medical grade material, so they’re safe for use 
  • come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit your needs 
  • affordable
Cons:
  • not reusable 
  • not a good fit for all ear shapes and sizes 
  • difficult to remove from the ear canal 

VINYL EAR MOLDS

Pros:
  • made of a soft, flexible material
  • comfortable to wear for long periods of time
  • come in a variety of colors and shapes to suit any style or need
Cons:
  • not as comfortable as other ear molds
  • can be difficult to clean and maintain
  • sound quality is often lower than with other ear molds

SILICONE EAR MOLDS:

Pros:
  • silicone ear molds are soft and comfortable
  • come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and styles
  • can be worn for extended periods of time without discomfort or irritation
  • hypoallergenic and non-toxic
Cons:
  • not as flexible as other materials
  • do not have the same acoustic properties as other materials
  • can be difficult to remove from ears

You may find that different ear mold materials provide you with better relief. If this is the case, it would be best to discuss your options with your audiologist. PA Center for Hearing and Balance offers a variety of hearing-related services in Springfield, PA.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Ear molds are made to be inserted into the ear canal where they help shape the inner and outer ear. The many shapes available make it easy to find one that fits your unique ears. We offer our customers a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, so they can find the perfect fit for their child. Some children may not like how ear molds look or feel, but we are able to accommodate them with an assortment of custom-made full shell earmolds in different colors and styles.
When used with hearing aids, ear molds work to direct sound waves from the outside world away from your ears and into the ear canal. This keeps any external sound from interfering with the input that goes to your hearing aid. Ears come in many shapes and sizes, so it can be difficult for one-size-fits-all ear molds to fit a person in need of protection. Soft, vinyl or silicone ones are more comfortable because they mold easily around small bumps on your outer ear. Hard acrylic or lucite varieties also offer great protection but may irritate sensitive skin if worn too long without breaks.

It’s important to know your anatomy in order to get the right ear mold. If you have a hearing loss, consult with an audiologist who can help you find the best fit for your ears and hearing needs. PA Center for Hearing and Balance offers ear mold fitting and customization.
Our audiologists can help you choose the type of ear molds based on the shape of your ears, type of hearing aid you are using (if to be used with hearing aids) and personal preferences. Ear molds are available in three standard sizes: small – canal size, medium – half-shell size and large – full shell size. When it comes to ear molds, personalization is the best route to ensure that you maximize the benefits of the ear molds based specifically on the physiology of your ear.

People with hearing loss in high pitches such as the voice of a child or woman find it difficult to hear, and for them, a domed style is recommended. Meanwhile, people struggling with low frequencies or those who have difficulty all around should invest in an ear mold. This will deliver better sound quality and offer a snug fit that won’t fall out during use. You will appreciate ear molds for hearing loss across the whole speech spectrum. These devices are especially useful for those with severe to profound hearing loss. A snug fit in the ear canal reduces or eliminates feedback loops, which can be very distracting and even painful. For more information about ear molds and hearing aids, feel free to call us at PA Center for Hearing and Balance.

Hear Better. Live Better.

  • 130 S. State Road,
    Suite 201 Springfield, PA 19064
  • 905 West Sproul Rd,
    Suite 201 Springfield, PA 19064
  • 610-438-5203
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