The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has just approved the SoundBite hearing aid, a type of bone conduction hearing aid. It works by combining an open fit hearing aid with an in-the-mouth (ITM) device that transmits vibrations via the teeth. The ITM is worn around the upper left or right back teeth.
In my opinion, the availability of the SoundBite means that people with unilateral hearing loss now have another option for hearing. On the other hand, I wonder who will want the SoundBite? Although the press release says most patients were satisfied with the SoundBite, I personally would not be comfortable with something in my mouth. Perhaps my experience with braces a few years ago is why I feel this way.
And what would food do to it? If you’re eating will chewing sounds drown out the sounds you want? Seems strange to me.