What are hearing aid domes?

What are hearing aid domes?

Hearing aids domes are a small, soft, bell-shaped part that provides a barrier between your ear canal and the speaker that delivers sound. Sometimes referred to “tips,” domes are usually made of medical-grade silicone or soft plastic and are designed to fit snugly in your ear while shaping how sound enters your ear canal.

These domes are most commonly used with receiver-in-canal (RIC) and behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, where the receiver (speaker) sits inside your ear canal.

Hearing aid domes vs. earmolds

Custom earmolds differ from domes in that they’re made specifically for your ear shape from impressions taken by an audiologist. While earmolds provide a tighter seal and are often used for more severe hearing loss or unique ear canal shapes, domes are an easily interchangeable, affordable go-to option for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.

What are the different types of hearing aid domes?

Every ear canal is unique, which is why hearing aid domes come in different styles and sizes to match your hearing needs. Here are the three main types of hearing aid domes:

• Open domes. These domes have multiple holes in them that let natural low-frequency sounds enter the ear while filtering out low-frequency noise. They reduce the “plugged ear” feeling and provide a more natural listening experience. However, because they are open, they may allow more feedback or whistling in noisy environments.
• Closed domes. Closed domes have fewer or smaller openings, blocking more external sound from entering the ear canal. They provide more low-frequency amplification and help reduce feedback compared to open domes.
• Power domes. Power domes, also called “plus domes,” have no openings and fully seal off the ear canal from outside noise. They are ideal for people with moderate to severe hearing loss who need stronger amplification and reduced feedback, though they may feel more occlusive.

What do hearing domes do?

You may be wondering if you even need hearing domes. While they certainly have their benefits, they’re not for everyone. Let’s take a look at the purposes that hearing aid domes serve:

• They mimic natural ear function. Because domes are often found on RIC and BTE hearing aids, they allow sound to enter the canal naturally while enhancing clarity, as opposed to other aids that more closely mimic headphones or earbuds.
• They are discreet. Domes sit inside the ear canal and are nearly invisible.
• They protect the speaker. Hearing aid domes completely cover the speaker of your device, helping to protect it from earwax and moisture damage.
• Provide a secure fit. These domes are designed to conform to the shape of the ear canal for a snug fit. A hearing care professional can help ensure you have the right size and style.

Hearing aid dome fitting tips

Most hearing aids come with domes in different sizes—typically small, medium, and large— to accommodate different ear canal shapes. The right size should form a gentle seal that keeps the hearing aid in place without causing pressure or discomfort.

Signs you’re using the wrong size dome:

• • Whistling or feedback noises

  • Fullness, pressure, or hearing your own voice (“occlusion effect”)

  • Itching, soreness, or irritation

  • Falling out when chewing, talking, or moving your jaw

  • Muffled or distorted sound

If you experience any of these issues, try testing different dome sizes or styles to find the most comfortable and effective seal for your hearing and ear anatomy. And remember, it may help to try different dome sizes in each ear.

Sometimes, what feels like a fit problem actually comes from buildup or debris, so cleaning your domes regularly can also prevent itching, slipping, and sound distortion.

How to clean hearing aid domes

Earwax and moisture can build up on domes leading to damage, which is why cleaning hearing aids regularly is so important. Luckily, this is as simple as wiping them down with a soft cloth every night. You can also use a thin cleaning brush to remove debris from openings. Always wash your hands before cleaning to avoid transferring any germs or bacteria onto the domes that can lead to an ear infection.

And remember to replace domes every 2-3 months or sooner if they appear discolored or damaged. They’re affordable — typically $10–$20 for a pack of 20–40 domes — and many audiologists include extras during maintenance visits or replacements at no charge.

The pros and cons of hearing aid domes

Despite their benefits, hearing aid domes also have a few potential drawbacks. Your audiologist can help determine whether domes are the right option for your specific type and degree of hearing loss. Here are the main pros and cons of hearing aid domes:

Pros of hearing aid domes

• Snug, comfortable fit
• Allow in low-frequency sounds
• Easy to clean and replace

Cons of hearing aid domes

• Need to be replaced every 2-3 months
• May get stuck in ear if not handled properly
• Small size can be difficult to handle if you have dexterity issues

How to know if a hearing aid dome is right for you

Hearing aid domes typically best serve people with mild to moderate hearing loss but can also work for higher degrees depending on device design. The type of hearing aid they’re often used with are behind-the-ear (BTE) or receiver-in-canal (RIC) devices, which are ideal for people who want a subtle, discreet look without sacrificing advanced technology.

If you want to ensure the best fit for your specific hearing loss concerns, it’s best to find a trusted audiologist near you to evaluate your hearing and guide you toward the right dome style and size.