Ringing in your ears? Read this

Types of earplugs and how they work

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Types of noise-plugs available

Comparison

Sponge /disposable noise-plugs

Standard / non-custom noise-plugs

Custom made noise-plugs

Price

Inexpensive

Average

Premium

Comfort

Will depend on the shape of your ear. Could easily slip out or be uncomfortable

These are custom made to the shape of your own ear so, they will fit your ear perfectly

Sound Quality

Poor, as these earplugs have no sound filter and usually make all sounds very muffled. The risk is that if you do not have a good fit, loud sound could still pass into your ears and cause noise damage.

Will depend on the shape of your ear canal and the fit of the earplug in your canal. The risk is that if you do not have a good fit, loud sound could still pass into your ears and cause noise damage.

These devices are fitted with different sound filters. Sound quality is excellent if the correct sound filter is chosen. A qualified audiologist can advise you on the best sound filter, based on the levels of your own hearing and the main purpose for wearing the hearing protection. The same protector can be used with different filters for different uses

How long they last

Single use. Increased risk of ear infection and ear pain if used regularly as bacteria can collect in the sponge very easily

Multiple use. The plastic domes on these may require changing when they become used. This is to prevent infection and enable the best fit

Made from antibacterial silicone material. Regular cleaning will make your noise-plug last up to 6 years. You may need a new protector as the shape of your ears change as you grow

How are custom earplugs or custom noise-plugs made

STEP 1

Ear examination

- Presence of earwax:

An impression cannot be taken with wax in your ear. The audiologist will need to remove the wax first.

- No earwax:

move to step 2

STEP 2

A small foam block placed in your ear

STEP 3

Using a special syringe, the audiologist will fill your ear canal with a silicone putty

STEP 4

The silicone will be left in your ear for a few minutes to set and once set will be carefully removed from your ear

STEP 5

The impression of your ear will be sent to a manufacturer to be made into the earplug that was chosen for your individual needs

Certain conditions of the ear will influence whether the impression can be taken or not. So it is vital that only a qualified audiologist examines your ears, and takes the impressions.