Hearing aid domes are accessories, or add-ons, for hearing aids. Knowing what these add-ons are and how they work may lead to an improved hearing in those with hearing loss who wear hearing aid devices.
What Are Hearing Aid Domes?
Hearing aid domes are soft pieces of plastic shaped like bulbs or bells that can be attached to hearing aids. They attach directly to the tubing on hearing aids and have two main functions. Their functions are to:
- Help hearing aids sit more comfortably and snugly in the ear to prevent them from moving out of place.
- Improve one’s hearing ability by enhancing the clarity of sounds, reducing external sounds, and directing sounds directly into the ear canal.
Types of Hearing Aid Domes
There are three main styles of hearing aid domes: open, closed, and power.
Open hearing aid domes feature a series of tiny holes that allow more natural noise and sound to pass into the ears. They can often improve sound quality in people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Closed hearing aid domes feature smaller holes to restrict the amount of outside sound that passes into the ears. These types of domes can amplify sounds that are low in frequency and are ideal for those with moderate hearing loss who want to reduce background noise.
Power hearing aid domes feature no holes and seal completely around the ear canal to block all outside noise. These domes are usually ideal for those with severe hearing loss.
The Benefits of Hearing Aid Domes
Hearing aid domes offer a wide range of benefits for people with hearing loss who wear hearing aids. Benefits include:
- A more natural hearing experience. Open and closed hearing aid domes allow some natural sound to pass into the ears, improving the hearing experience for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
- A better fit. Hearing aid domes can help hearing aids fit more snugly and comfortably inside the ears and can be especially useful for those waiting to receive their custom-fitting hearing aids.
- The ability to hear one’s own voice. The natural hearing experience created by hearing aid domes makes it possible to hear one’s own voice when wearing hearing aids.
- Discreet design and style. Hearing aid domes are small and easily hidden in the ear, which means people can benefit from improved hearing without having to worry about hearing aid accessories that may be larger, unsightly, and uncomfortable.
Changing and Replacing Hearing Aid Domes
Hearing aid domes are disposable and should be replaced every one to three months for the best results. Replacing hearing aid domes can maintain quality hearing and help prevent dirt and bacteria from getting into the inner ear, where they can increase the risk of infection and greater hearing loss.
Getting the Right Fit for Hearing Aid Domes
Hearing aid domes that fit properly should form a secure seal in the ear canal without causing discomfort or putting pressure on the ear. Signs of poorly fitting hearing aid domes include pain or discomfort in the ear, deep-sounding voices, poor sound quality, and problems with the domes easily falling out. An audiologist can help with choosing the best hearing aid domes based on a person’s ear size.
Drawbacks to Hearing Aid Domes
Hearing aid domes may not be ideal for everyone, and they do come with some drawbacks. Some of these drawbacks include:
- Occasional feedback. Some people with high-frequency hearing loss report experiencing feedback when wearing hearing aid domes.
- Frequent replacement. Hearing aid domes can be costly over time, given that they must be replaced every one to three months.
- Discomfort. Hearing aid domes are not universal or one-size-fits-all and do cause pain and discomfort in some people.
Sonora Hearing Care is devoted to working with you to protect your hearing and reduce your risk for hearing loss. Our audiologists can get you fitted for hearing aids and help you choose the best hearing aid domes. Contact us today at (520) 881-8740 to request an appointment and to learn more about our many available hearing services.