Dome Style vs. Earmolds What’s the Best Hearing Aid For You

Different types of hearing aids

Finding the perfect hearing aid can be a time-consuming process solely because there is no such thing as one-size-fits-all. Because everyone has a different ear shape and size (such as protruding, tucket, rigid, or petite), people with hearing disabilities often experience discomfort as a result of their chosen aids. 

Years ago, everyone who needed hearing aids was prone to discomfort due to a poor fit. Today, however, developments in hearing technology have made way for one particular innovation that helps alleviate fitting problems: earmolds. 

Thanks to custom-fitted earmolds, people who use hearing aids can now enjoy the best of what their devices have to offer. 

Custom hearing aid earmolds can make a world of difference in a user’s experience because they’re the piece placed in the ear, which in turn can affect the usability and comfort of an aid. It’s best to get a custom hearing aid for maximum comfort. After all, nobody wants to be in constant discomfort when trying to hear. 

There are two basic earpiece options that you can choose from when getting a hearing aid: dome style and earmolds. Here’s a basic rundown of each one and why we think you should choose the latter:

 

DOME STYLE

Dome style pieces are best characterized by their cone-like appearance and are often not customized for a user’s ear shape, which can prove to be a bit uncomfortable at first use (but can be adjusted to overtime). 

This option is typically available in standard sizes that vary depending on a fixed range of measurements, which means that you’ll be given a size that best fits your ear canal’s dimensions. 

While dome styles aren’t exactly customizable to certain ear shapes, they’re relatively comfortable to use because of their large openings that let in a good amount of ventilation and natural sound to stimulate natural hearing. 

 

EARMOLDS

Earmolds, unlike the former, are made of plastic or silicone for greater user comfort. They are custom-fit for easier use. The quality that best defines earmolds is their ability to fit precisely in a user’s ear canal for a snug, yet comfortable fit. 

Three examples of earmold hearing aids
Three examples of custom earmold hearing aids. Image source: https://testbeltone.beltoneapps.com/hearing-aids/custom-earmolds.aspx

Earmolds are made even better with small vents that let air through for better ventilation. These pieces are usually available in three different sizes: canal size (small), half-shell size (medium), or full-shell size (large). They can also be casted to suit your ear canal, making for the perfect fit!

Why should you go for earmolds?

To put it simply, earmolds are the best option for those who have a high-frequency hearing loss, which means that they experience trouble with hearing sounds at a higher pitch or frequency (such as whistles and shrieks). 

Due to their exceptionally snug fit, earmolds help with keeping amplified sound from a hearing aid for a conducive experience for preventing feedback loops. As a result, users can enjoy a more fine-tuned experience. 

 

Conclusion

Over five per cent of the world’s population suffer from disabled hearing loss. Fortunately, technology has made it possible for many of these people to hear again. If you happen to be one of this number, make your hearing aid experience the best that it can be by opting for earmolds. 

If you’d like to check the conditions of your ears, come on down to Fraser Valley Beltone today!

We provide extensive & free hearing tests in Langley, BC. Get in touch today to book your appointment.

 

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