Hearing aids have revolutionized the way people with hearing loss experience the world around them. However, the effectiveness of these devices depends on various factors, including the proper selection and maintenance of components such as hearing aid domes. In this article, we delve into the significance of Lexie hearing aid domes, exploring their purpose, selection process, and maintenance.

What is a Dome and What is the Purpose of a Dome

Hearing aid domes serve as crucial components of behind-the-ear and in-the-ear/canal-style hearing aids. They attach to the slim tube/receiver wire or the sound outlet of the device, facilitating a secure fit while directing amplified sounds into the ear canal. Made of soft, medical-grade silicone, domes ensure comfort and serve to protect the speaker situated in the receiver of the wire or sound outlet of the hearing aid.

What to Expect When First Placing a Dome into Your Ear Canal

When placing a dome in your ear canal for the first time, several sensations and experiences may occur. Initially, you might become aware of the presence of an object in your ear, though it typically doesn’t cause discomfort. You might also feel a sense of fullness or blockage in the ear canal.

Additionally, there might be some initial itchiness as the soft dome material tickles the skin inside your ear canal; however, this sensation should not be confused with an allergic reaction. It’s common for your own voice to sound different or louder than usual, and chewing noises might also seem louder.

Furthermore, you may experience feedback, indicated by a whistling noise coming from your hearing aid. One of the instances when feedback can occur is if the dome is not positioned correctly in your ear canal, this could be remedied by repositioning the dome in your ear canal. With regular use these sensations typically diminish over time as you become used to wearing the hearing aid and find the most appropriate dome for your needs.

Why Dome Selection is Crucial

Selecting the appropriate dome for your hearing aid is crucial for ensuring comfort, effectiveness, and overall satisfaction with your device. Since ear canals vary in size and shape from person to person, and ear to ear, finding the appropriate dome may require some trial and error. The right dome should provide a secure and comfortable fit without causing discomfort or feedback issues. Choosing an inappropriate dome could lead to discomfort, inadequate amplification, or even the hearing aid falling out.

Additionally, selecting the correct dome can help maximize the performance of your hearing aid by directing amplified sounds effectively into your ear canal while minimizing unwanted feedback or occlusion (a feeling of fullness in your ear). Therefore, investing time and effort into selecting the right dome is essential for achieving optimal hearing aid performance and user experience. Lexie offers open and closed domes, each catering to specific needs based on individual hearing loss and preferences.

Types of Lexie Domes: Open vs. Closed

The domes that are included with your hearing aids are explained below. They are designed and manufactured for use with your Lexie hearing aids. Do not use domes from other manufacturers due to the risk of the dome falling off in your ear canal.

Open domes

Open domes have small openings around the center of the dome, creating a more open or less occluding fit. These openings allow natural sound (not amplified by your hearing aid) to enter and leave your ear canal.

This type of dome might be more suited for those who have minimal difficulty detecting lower-pitched tones, or those who require less volume on their hearing aids.

Open domes can help:

• Your voice sound more natural,
• Lessen the sensation of your ears feeling blocked or full,
• Reduce chewing noise while eating.
• Lessen the awareness of the hearing aids’ internal noise
• Additionally, they could help to prevent over-amplification of lower-pitched sounds, making your hearing aids seem less loud or noisy.

Closed domes

Closed domes do not have openings around the center of the domes. They tend to create a fuller (more occluding) seal in the canal, thus reducing the occurrence of amplified sounds escaping. This type of dome might be more suited to those who need more amplification to maximize their hearing ability.

Since they limit lower-frequency sounds escaping the ear canal, they have the potential to increase your awareness of the bass quality of sounds. Closed domes can also prevent your hearing aids from whistling, especially at higher volume levels.

Please note: Other domes such as tulip, power, and double domes are available on the market. These domes may have a different design, shape, and function compared to the domes provided with your Lexie hearing aids.

What to Watch Out For

If the selected dome size is too small or too open, it could result in:

• A loose fit which may result in the hearing aid falling out,
• Increased opportunity for feedback (whistling noise) especially when the volume of the hearing aid is increased.

If the selected dome size is too big, it could result in:

• Tight, uncomfortable fit,
• Difficulty positioning the dome in the ear canal.

Ideally, if you shake your head or open/close your mouth, your hearing aid and dome should remain securely in place.

Dome Cleaning and Maintenance

Hearing aid dome cleaning is a vital aspect of maintaining both the hygiene and functionality of your hearing aids. The domes, being in constant contact with the delicate skin of the ear canal, can accumulate debris, earwax, and other particles over time. Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of these substances, improve ear hygiene, and prevent infection and discomfort.

Moreover, keeping the domes clean ensures that sound can be transmitted effectively from the hearing aid into your ear canal, optimizing the performance of the hearing aid. Neglecting to clean the domes regularly can result in blocked sound outlets, poor fit, or compromised sound quality. Therefore, incorporating dome cleaning into your daily routine is essential for maintaining healthy ears and maximizing the benefits of your hearing aids.

Daily cleaning using a soft brush or cloth is recommended to remove debris and maintain optimal performance.

How to clean the domes

• Clean your domes daily.
• Use the cleaning brush provided in the accessories kit within the box and/or a soft lint-free cloth to remove debris from the dome, paying particular attention to the sound outlet/opening of the dome. If the dome appears blocked, remove the dome from the hearing aid before cleaning.
• When the dome has been removed, remember to brush away debris from the white wax guard as well. Click here to watch an easy-to-follow tutorial.
• Refer to the “Care and Maintenance” section within your Lexie Hearing user manual.

How often you should replace the domes

Replacement frequency may vary depending on individual factors such as cleaning routine and usage patterns. Even if your domes are well cared for, they will need to be replaced every 2-3 months due to general wear and tear. However, the frequency of replacing the domes is unique to each individual. If you suspect a damaged or poorly fitting dome, replace it sooner rather than later, but do not wait longer than three months.

How to replace the domes

• Hold onto the end of the receiver wire that is closest to the dome.
• Use your other hand to grasp the dome between your forefinger and thumb.
• Carefully pull off the dome from the end of the receiver wire.
• If you struggle to remove the receiver wire, you can insert your fingernail into the groove between the hearing aid and receiver wire, to slightly raise the wire. This will make it easier to pull the wire off
• To replace, firmly push the inner tube of the dome onto and over the end of the receiver wire.
  Ensure that the dome is placed correctly onto the slim tube. You should be able to tug it slightly without removing it.
• Watch our easy-to-follow video below.

 

Conclusion

Hearing aid domes play a vital role in enhancing comfort, sound quality, and overall user experience of your Lexie hearing aids. By understanding the importance of dome selection and maintenance, individuals can maximize the benefits of their hearing aids and enjoy an improved hearing experience. Ensuring proper dome care and replacement is essential for long-term satisfaction and hearing health.

In conclusion, hearing aid domes are not just accessories but essential components that significantly impact the functionality and comfort of hearing aids. With proper understanding, selection, and maintenance, users can optimize their hearing aid experience and embrace the world of sound with confidence and clarity.

Click here to conveniently purchase new domes and other accessories. We know that no two ears are the same, so if you require personalized assistance to find the right fit for your Lexie hearing aid domes, contact Lexie Experts on (800) 499-1336.