years
I have been using them for years. Initially with the foamie tips and for the last 4 years with a custom molded insert molded to my ear canal. I will not fly without them!
I have made many fast climbs and descents with no issue. IF I am a bit sweaty they sometimes seal up a bit, but remember that there are so many physiological factors that go into ear blocks. You are lucky it was an easy one. There are ear, tooth, etc blocks.
Remember an ear block on ascent CANNOT be helped with a valsalva as there already exists too much pressure inside the ear. On descent, valsalva often to prevent the ear block and never fly if you have congestion, etc as these blocks can cause max pain if in a tooth or can even blow out an eardrum.