Why is it critical to push firmly on the concha after filling it with impression material?

Pushing firmly on the concha after filling it with impression material is essential to ensure a complete filling of all areas. When taking an ear impression, it is crucial to obtain a precise mold that captures every contour of the outer ear and the ear canal. By applying firm pressure, the impression material is more likely to adequately fill all the anatomical features of the ear, thereby preventing gaps or voids that could compromise the accuracy of the impression.

A well-done impression is vital for creating custom ear molds or hearing aids that fit properly. If any areas are poorly filled due to lack of pressure, the final product may not fit correctly, leading to potential discomfort, ineffective amplification, or issues with retention of the hearing aid. Thus, the emphasis on complete filling highlights the significance of achieving a highly accurate ear impression for successful hearing aid fitting.