Safe, Effective Ear Cleaning
Earwax is a normal and healthy feature of our ears.
When wax builds up or becomes impacted, it can cause hearing changes, discomfort, and other symptoms.
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At Baitz Audiology, professional earwax removal is performed by an audiologist using careful instrumentation or irrigation, depending on what is safest and most appropriate for your ears.
Earwax Removal in Thornhill, Ontario
Signs you may need wax removal
Earwax buildup may cause:Â
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A blocked or full feeling in the ear
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Reduced or muffled hearing
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Itchy ears
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Ear discomfort or pain
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Dizziness
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New or increased tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
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For hearing aid users: change in sound quality or feedbackÂ
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If you are experiencing significant pain, drainage, sudden hearing loss, or other concerning symptoms, further medical assessment may be recommended before wax removal
Earwax, also called cerumen, is produced by glands in the skin of the ear canal. It combines with naturally shed skin cells and other substances to form the wax that protects and lubricates the ear.
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For most people, earwax gradually moves toward the opening of the ear as the skin of the ear canal naturally migrates outward. Movement of the jaw (like when chewing or talking) can also help move wax toward the outside of the ear.
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Some people are more prone to wax buildup. Genetics can influence both the amount and type of earwax produced, while the size and shape of the ear canal can affect wax migration.
What can cause a wax blockage
Using Cotton Swabs and Other Objects to Clean EarsÂ
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Pushes wax deeper into the canal, which can lead to impactionÂ
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Irritate or injure the delicate skin of the ear canal
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Interfere with the ear's natural wax migration
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Earbuds, Earplugs, and Hearing Aids
Objects worn in the ear can interfere with the natural outward movement of wax and may contribute to buildup in some people.
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Naturally Increased Wax ProductionÂ
Some people naturally produce more earwax than others. Genetics, as well as the size and shape of the ear canal, can make certain individuals more susceptible to buildup.
About Earwax
Your audiologist will perform a careful visual examination of your ear canals and eardrums to determine whether wax removal is appropriate and which method is best suited to your ears.
We offer video otoscopy, allowing you to see what your audiologist is seeing inside your ears.
Ear exam
Step 2
What Happens at a Wax Removal Appointment
Step 1
Preparation
We may recommend using a wax-softening agent before your appointment. This may include unscented olive oil, mineral oil, baby oil, or an over-the-counter earwax-softening solution.
If recommended, we generally suggest 2–5 drops in each affected ear once daily for up to one week before your appointment.
Do not use ear drops or oil if you have a history of a perforated eardrum, ear tubes, ear surgery, significant ear injury, or certain ear infections unless advised by an appropriate healthcare professional.
Depending on the amount, location, and consistency of the wax, your audiologist may use instrumentation, irrigation, or a combination of techniques.
Earwax Removal
Step 3
Step 4
Review and Next Steps
After removal, we will re-examine your ears and discuss any findings or recommendations with you.
You'll also receive guidance on safe ear care and ways to reduce the likelihood of future wax buildup.
Our goal is not simply to remove the wax, but to make sure your ears are healthy and that any hearing or ear-related concerns are appropriately addressed.
Instrumentation
A specialized instrument called a curette is used to carefully remove wax from the ear canal. Instrumentation provides direct, controlled removal and may be preferable depending on the location and consistency of the wax.
Irrigation
Warm water is gently introduced into the ear canal using a controlled stream to loosen and flush out wax. The water and softened wax then flow out of the ear. Irrigation may not be appropriate in every situation depending on your ear examination and medical history.
Thoughtful hearing care starts here.
If you’re looking for an independent audiologist in Thornhill, Baitz Audiology offers clear answers, careful assessment and hearing care built around what you actually need in a modern, attentive setting.
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Our office has free parking to serve patients from Thornhill, Vaughan, Concord, Richmond Hill, Markham, North York and surrounding communities.
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Book an appointment to get started.