A hearing aid mould, also known as a custom earmold, is a personalized device designed to fit the unique contours of your outer ear and ear canal. This device channels amplified sound directly into the ear canal. Earmolds are typically made from materials like silicone or acrylic to ensure a precise fit. Achieving a proper seal is necessary for clear sound transmission and comfort. If the mould is not fully seated, amplified sound can leak out and cause acoustic feedback or whistling. Correct insertion technique is fundamental to prevent whistling and ensure the device functions as intended.
Preparing the Earmold for Insertion
Before attempting to place the device, establish the correct orientation of the earmold. Most hearing aids utilize a color-coding system: red indicates the right ear and blue signifies the left ear. Hold the mould so the tubing or receiver wire is positioned upward, as this guides the mould into the correct final placement behind the ear. Inspect the earmold surface for any visible wax or debris that may interfere with the seal or cause discomfort.
A clean and dry mould ensures a smooth insertion process, so a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is recommended. To prepare the ear, gently pull up and back on the outer ear, specifically the helix or upper earlobe. This action slightly straightens the natural bend of the ear canal, creating a clearer pathway for the custom mould. This helps the mould slide into its deepest resting position.
Step-by-Step Insertion Technique
Begin insertion by gripping the earmold firmly near the sound bore entrance. Avoid gripping the thin tubing or the wire, which can be damaged or twist the mould out of alignment. Position the canal tip so it points slightly forward toward the jawline or nose.
Gently introduce the canal tip into the prepared ear canal, following the natural curve without forcing the device. Navigating the initial bend of the canal often requires a slight twisting or rocking motion. As the canal portion seats, rotate the rest of the mould backward to slide the outer shell into the concha, the bowl-shaped area of the outer ear.
The final push should be gentle but firm, directed until the mould sits deeply and the outer edges are flush with the skin of the concha. Apply gentle, constant pressure until you feel a definitive seating, which may be accompanied by a slight pop or click. This deep placement maximizes the acoustic seal, which is important to prevent leakage. Once seated, tuck the main body of the hearing aid (if behind-the-ear style) securely over the top of the ear.
Checking the Fit and Troubleshooting
After the mould has been inserted, perform a quick verification check to confirm successful placement. Run a finger lightly around the outside edge of the mould, ensuring the entire surface is seated and flush against the ear. There should be no visible gaps, particularly along the rim that tucks under the upper fold of the ear, known as the helix.
Next, assess the overall comfort level; a correctly placed mould should feel secure but not cause pain or excessive pressure. If you experience localized sharp pain, the mould may not be fully seated, requiring removal and re-insertion. A poorly fitted mould may also move or become dislodged during natural movements like chewing or talking.
The most immediate sign of improper seating is acoustic feedback, a high-pitched whistling or squealing sound. If whistling occurs, the solution is to remove and re-insert the mould using the proper technique, rather than reducing the volume. This confirms sound is escaping the ear canal, which requires re-establishing a tight acoustic seal. Consistent whistling after multiple attempts suggests consulting an audiologist for earwax blockage or a possible physical adjustment to the custom mould.