Brief summary: Domes serve two purposes: they ensure a secure fit in the ear canal and provide acoustic sealing, without which there would be whistling at higher volumes. They are cleaned as part of the normal care routine and usually replaced once a year. The audiologist determines the size, as it influences the acoustic connection.
What domes are for
The small silicone dome at the end of the receiver may seem inconspicuous, but it fulfills two central tasks. Firstly, it ensures a secure hold and fit in the ear and ear canal, so the hearing aid stays where it belongs even with movement. Secondly, it provides the so-called acoustic sealing: at certain amplifications, a certain degree of sealing is required in the ear, otherwise sound escapes and feedback, the typical whistling, occurs. That is exactly what the domes are made for.
Size and shape are determined by the audiologist
Open, closed, small, large: the correct dome shape and size depend heavily on the so-called acoustic connection, meaning how tightly your ear needs to be sealed for your hearing curve. This is determined by the audiologist. Therefore, our clear advice: do not arbitrarily switch to a different size or shape, but stick to the one your audiologist has fitted. If you are dissatisfied with the hold or wearing comfort, discuss it with your audiologist.
Cleaning: just let it run with your routine
The domes simply run with your normal care routine: wipe them with auriFIX spray on a cloth or with cleaning wipes, daily or once a week depending on cerumen production. Briefly check whether the dome is still firmly seated on the receiver and has no cracks. You can find the complete routine in our cleaning guide and the Master Knowledge Library.
When replacement is due
As a rule of thumb, the dome is usually replaced once a year, more frequently with heavy cerumen production, and less frequently with less stress. Clear signs of replacement: the material becomes brittle or cracked, the dome sits loosely, or there is whistling despite filter and fit checks. The audiologist takes care of the replacement during the check-up appointment, and also checks the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
My dome is stuck in my ear. What should I do? Please do not attempt to remove it yourself with tools, but go exclusively to an ENT doctor. Audiologists are not allowed to remove foreign objects from the ear canal.
Can I use domes from other manufacturers? We advise against this: shape, material, and connection are coordinated. Stick to the system that your audiologist has fitted.
Is it whistling because of the dome? Quite possibly: a worn or ill-fitting dome is one of the most common causes of whistling. Find out more in our guide Hearing aid whistling.
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