Sudden noises and long-term exposure to loud sounds can damage your hearing. Hearing loss from prolonged noise exposure is often detected long after the damage is done, making the loss irreversible.
It's estimated that nearly 10 percent of the U.S. population suffers from some degree of hearing loss. Most people think this number is confined to senior citizens, but 14 percent of people between the ages of 40 and 59 also reported the condition. Routine physicals rarely include hearing tests, so it's important to be proactive and protect your hearing around all types of noise exposure.
Many people resort to standard ear plugs to save time and money, or because they don't realize custom mold ear plugs are available. However, store bought ear plugs offer limited protection due to the one-size-fits-all style or the low quality material. On the contrary, custom ear molds are fit to your ear using state of the art material offering the maximum protection, comfortable fit and advanced features.
- Lawnmowers
- Power tools
- Fireworks
- Motorcycles
- Loud concerts, playing in a band
Custom Ear Molds for Specific Purposes
Ear molds are used for many different reasons. The type you need depends on your unique fit and your purpose for using them. Ear plugs are made from a variety of materials. Some are solid for complete protection, while others allow some sound to pass through. Custom ear plugs are available with or without handles and detachable cords. Custom ear molds can be designed to fit every unique lifestyle.
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Meet with Dr. Tanner to learn more about custom ear molds and the best option for you.
Shooting Ear Plugs for Hunting and Marksmen
One gunshot can do irreversible damage to your hearing. Hunter's ear molds are designed to block those dangerous gun shots, while allowing other sounds to be heard. In an environment containing large animals and other hunters, it is important to be aware of your surroundings.
Custom Molded In Ear Monitors for Musicians
It's important to prevent hearing loss, but necessary for a musician to clearly hear their music and the music of the other musicians. Store bought ear monitors block too much sound for musicians. Custom ear molds are also used by other professionals like airline crews, DJs, band teachers, truck drivers, and athletic coaches.
Hearing Aid Ear Molds
Earmolds built for the hearing impaired have a wide range of styles and features. Your style choice will be determined by several factors including the level of hearing loss, lifestyle, budget, and skin sensitivity. They are available in different skin tones and a variety of bright colors.
Swimming Ear Plugs
Bacteria can enter the ear canal with water, creating infections. Custom ear plugs for swimmers are perfectly fitted, allowing no water to seep through. They are made from quality materials, which ensure long-lasting comfort and wash ability for better hygiene.
Ear Molds for Babies
Your baby's hearing is extremely sensitive. Keeping babies away from loud sudden sounds is recommended, but not always possible. Earmuffs are generally used to block sounds for infants. However, when hearing assistance is needed it might be necessary to have your infant fitted for ear molds.
Ear plugs can also be used to help babies that are prone to ear infections resulting from bath water that doesn't properly drain after seeping into the ear canal.
Ear Plugs for Kids
One in five teens currently have documented hearing loss, 60 percent of which could have been prevented. Kids are often involved in loud activities, sports, or swimming underwater. Hearing loss from noise exposure compounds over a lifetime, so it is important to protect the growing hearing system of your child.
Choosing your child's ear molds might be different than making a selection for an adult. Children lead active lifestyles, and their ears may get bumped and jostled during play. A soft material will help ensure comfort, so your child won't be tempted to avoid wearing ear plugs.
Where Can I Get Custom Ear Molds?
Custom ear molds need to be fitted by a professional audiologist, or hearing specialist. Your appointment will include making an ear mold impression. The process takes several steps to complete.
- Visual examination- Your doctor first needs to check the ear canal to make sure it is clean and healthy. Wax buildup would cause an improper fit. A clean canal is necessary before taking an impression.
- Protect your eardrum- Your doctor will insert an otoblock into your ear canal. This keeps the impression material from going down the ear canal too far.
- Take the impression- An impression material gun will be placed into your ear opening to squeeze impression material into the ear canal. You may feel some ear tickling and a cooling sensation in your ear canal.
- The wait- The impression material begins to set immediately, but you will need to wait a few minutes for the process to be complete.
- Remove the impression- Your doctor will release pressure from your ear, then twist and remove the impression. The impression will be examined for flaws before you leave.
- Creation- Your doctor will send the impression to the manufacturer to have your earmolds created. You will return to the doctor in approximately 10 days to get your finished custom ear molds.
Your hearing is important. Ear molds created by your audiologist will ensure you have the proper protection to help prevent hearing loss in all stages of life. Contact our office or schedule a free consultation to discuss custom ear molds for your special purpose.
