Custom Ear Molds
Department of Audiology, Division of Otolaryngology
Noise-induced Hearing Loss
28 million people in the United States are affected by
hearing loss in one or both ears. With the incidence of
noise-induced hearing loss occurring at younger ages, it is
important to understand how noise-induced hearing loss
occurs and how it can be prevented.
Noise-induced hearing loss typically occurs gradually and
without pain. Often by the time an individual realizes that
there may be a problem, it is too late. Some of the early
warning signs include:
- Difficulty hearing conversations especially in the
presence of background noise
- Asking to repeat conversations
- Misunderstanding what has been said
- Difficulty hearing telephone conversations
- Increasing the volume on the television or radio
- Feeling that people are mumbling when they are talking
- Difficulty hearing certain sounds or pitches
- Straining to hear or keep up with a conversation
- Tinnitus
With the availability of information and resources,
positive steps can be taken to reduce the occurrence of
noise-induced hearing loss.
Who Benefits from Custom Hearing Protection?
Both the amount of noise and the length of exposure
determine the potential damage to your hearing. The
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
indicates that continued exposure of unprotected ears to
noise 85 decibels or greater will cause gradual hearing
loss in a significant number of individuals including:
- Dentists
- Pilots/Airline personnel
- Industrial workers
- Machinists
- Musicians
- Recording engineers
- Sound crews
- Restaurant/Night club personnel
- Hunters/Shooters
Who Benefits from Custom Recreational Molds?
An individual whose hearing isn’t at risk, but would like to
avoid possible damage or to reduce discomfort include:
- Airline/Auto travelers
- Flight attendants
- Music listeners
- Spectators at sporting events
- Individuals with heightened sensitivity to loud sound
About the Products
Together with ear mold manufacturers, we can customize
products to suit your personal or professional requirements.
Ear pieces are available in various styles, materials and
colors for your individual needs.
Noise Suppression Earplugs
Individually fit to block noise leaks while working or
playing in noisy environments. Various degrees of protection
are available depending on the level of noise exposure
and/or type of activity.
AquaSeal Earplugs
Floatable ear plugs provide a waterproof seal and a contour
fit to the ear. All ear molds are made with easy-grip handles
for removal and can be fit with an optional pop-in cord.
Perfect for individuals prone to ear infections or ear
sensitivity problems.
Personal Listening Device and Cell Phone Ear Molds
Provides custom-fit comfort for most ear bud style devices.
Individuals have free use of both hands, and the ear buds
stay securely attached to the mold. By reducing external
noise, it allows the wearer to listen at a lower ear level
volume, decreasing the risk of noise-induced damage.
Medical Ear Molds
Custom-fit ear pieces designed specifically for
anesthesiologists.
Musician Earplugs
A custom ear mold with a sound reduction attenuator attached,
lowering sound evenly at all frequencies without
compromising sound quality and making sound quieter. The
earplug attenuators are available in three different levels.
Telecommunications Ear Molds
A customized ear mold is attached to a piece of tubing and
fitted with a female adapter at the other end.
Aviation Ear Molds
A custom-made ear mold designed to connect to a headset or
fit with a male adapter.
Custom Radio Headphones
An electronic receiver is molded into two custom earpieces
that are inserted into the ears. The receivers are attached
to a Y cord for radio accessibility.
Hunting and Shooting Ear Molds
A custom ear mold allows for normal hearing until high-impact
noise activates a sonic valve, restricting the damaging
noise from reaching the ear.
Motor Sports Ear Molds
Customized ear mold designed to be worn under a helmet to
eliminate wind noise. |
Contact Information Appointments
Custom ear molds are available through the Department of Audiology at the suburban campus of the UConn Health Center in Farmington.
For more information or to make an appointment, please call
860-679-2804.
Office Location
Otolaryngology Associates
UConn Health Center
Dowling South Medical Building
263 Farmington Avenue
Farmington, CT 06030-6228
Directions
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