If your ears suddenly feel plugged, your hearing seems muffled, or your hearing aids aren’t working as well as they used to, impacted ear wax could be the culprit.
The good news? Professional ear wax removal is a quick, safe, and effective way to restore your hearing and comfort.
In this post, our Markham audiologists explain everything you need to know about ear wax removal, including what causes wax buildup, the best way to remove ear wax, and what to expect during an appointment.
What Is Ear Wax?
Also known as cerumen, ear wax is a secretion produced by a joint effort between two types of glands: ceruminous glands and sebaceous glands.
While many people view it as something undesirable that needs to be removed, it’s actually an important part of your body’s natural defense system.
Ear wax:
- Traps dust, dirt, and other debris before it reaches the eardrum.
- Serves as a waterproof lining.
- Carries debris and dead skin cells out of your ear.
- Protects the ear canal from bacteria and fungi that can cause infections.
- Lubricates the ear canal to prevent dryness and irritation.
In most people, ear wax naturally works its way out of the ear. As new skin cells grow inside the ear canal, older skin and wax slowly migrate outward.
Because of this natural self-cleaning process, most people never need to clean inside their ears. However, some people produce excess ear wax and periodically require professional removal.
What Causes Ear Wax Buildup?
Sometimes, instead of moving outward, ear wax accumulates inside the ear canal where it becomes impacted.
Several factors can increase your risk of ear wax buildup, including:
Using Cotton Swabs
Cotton swabs (i.e., Q-tips) don’t actually remove ear wax. Instead, they often push it deeper into the ear canal, which increases the risk of blockage and injury to the eardrum.
The same is true for bobby pins, keys, fingers, and other objects that people sometimes use to “clean” their ears.
Wearing Earbuds, Ear Plugs, or Hearing Aids
Anything that sits inside the ear canal can prevent the wax from making its way out of the ear canal. Earbuds, custom earplugs, and hearing aids may contribute to wax accumulation in some individuals.
Naturally Producing More Earwax
Certain people produce more ear wax than others or have narrower or curvier ear canals that make it more difficult for wax to migrate outward.
Age
As we get older, ear wax can become drier and harder, which can lead to impaction.
According to the World Health Organization, excess cerumen accumulation affects approximately 5% of adults, 10% of children, and more than 50% of older adults, making it one of the most common (and preventable) causes of hearing loss.¹
When Is Professional Ear Cleaning Needed?
As we said, a small amount of ear wax is completely normal and healthy. However, professional ear wax extraction may be recommended when excessive or impacted wax blocks the ear canal and affects your hearing.
Common signs include:
- Muffled or reduced hearing
- A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
- Itching in the ear canal
- Ear pain or discomfort
- Infection
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Dizziness
- Poor sound quality or feedback if you wear hearing aids
Because these symptoms can also be caused by other ear conditions, it’s important not to assume ear wax is the problem.
An audiologist can examine your ears and determine whether wax buildup is responsible or if it’s something else that requires medical attention. Be sure to get it checked out as soon as possible in case it’s a more time-sensitive issue.
What’s the Best Way to Remove Ear Wax?
As for the best way to remove ear wax, the answer depends on how much wax is present and whether it’s impacted.
For most people, the best approach is to leave their ears alone.
Healthy ears are self-cleaning, so routine cleaning inside the ear canal isn’t necessary. If you notice wax on the outside of your ear, gently wipe it away with a damp washcloth.
What You Should Avoid
A lot of popular home remedies can do more harm than good. Avoid using:
- Cotton swabs
- Hairpins or other objects
- Ear candles
- High-pressure water devices
These methods can push wax deeper into the ear canal, increase the risk of impaction, or even damage the delicate skin of the ear canal or eardrum.
Can Ear Drops Help?
If you have stubborn ear wax, your audiologist may recommend softening it before your appointment using over-the-counter ear drops, mineral oil, baby oil, or olive oil.
Do not use ear drops if you have ear tubes, a perforated eardrum, or a history of ear injury, surgery, or severe ear infections, unless you’ve been advised to do so by a healthcare professional.
The Recommended Way to Remove Wax Buildup
If your ear wax is causing a blockage or discomfort, the most effective solution is professional cerumen removal performed by a trained clinician.
At Archer Hearing Centre, our audiologists first examine your ears and then determine whether irrigation or manual ear wax extraction with a curette is the safest and most effective option for your specific situation.
What to Expect During Professional Ear Wax Removal in Markham
At Archer Hearing Centre, your ear cleaning appointment is designed to be thorough, safe, and tailored to your individual needs.
Step 1: Ear Examination
We start by carefully examining your ears.
Using a video otoscope, your audiologist will inspect your ear canal to determine whether ear wax is causing your symptoms. The camera also allows you to see the wax buildup for yourself to give you a better understanding of what’s happening inside your ear.
Your audiologist will then determine which cerumen removal method is safest and most effective based on the amount, consistency, and location of the wax.
Step 2: Ear Wax Removal
Depending on your needs, our Markham audiologists may perform ear wax irrigation (ear syringing) or remove the wax with a curette.
Both options are safe when performed by an audiologist.
Step 3: Aftercare
Once the wax has been removed, your audiologist will examine your ears again to ensure the ear canal is clear and healthy.
You’ll also receive personalized advice on managing future wax buildup, including whether routine maintenance or follow-up appointments might be beneficial.
Ear Wax Extraction With a Curette vs. Irrigation
Ear Wax Extraction With a Curette
If the wax is very hard, impacted, or irrigation isn’t appropriate, our audiologists may recommend ear wax extraction using a curette.
A curette is a small, curved instrument that allows the audiologist to manually remove wax from the ear with a high degree of control.
The technique is precise and effective, making it ideal for certain patients and types of cerumen.
Ear Wax Irrigation
Our audiologists perform ear wax irrigation, also known as ear syringing, as well. They use a gentle, controlled stream of warm water to soften the wax and flush it out of the ear canal.
This method is comfortable, non-invasive, and effective for most patients and types of wax buildup. However, irrigation is not recommended for those with certain conditions like an active ear infection or a perforated eardrum.
Is Professional Ear Wax Removal Safe?
Yes. When performed by an experienced audiologist, professional ear wax removal is considered a safe and effective procedure.
Attempting to remove earwax yourself, on the other hand, can increase the risk of:
- Pushing wax deeper into the ear canal
- Scratching the ear canal
- Perforating the eardrum
- Infection
The importance of proper training has also been highlighted within the hearing healthcare profession.
An article published in Canadian Audiologist noted that while cerumen management falls within the scope of practice of several healthcare providers, formal training and standardized protocols can vary considerably.
The publication emphasizes the importance of timely access to clinicians with the appropriate knowledge, skills, and experience to safely perform cerumen removal.²
At Archer Hearing Centre, ear wax removal is performed by licensed audiologists with specialized training in addressing a wide range of hearing and ear-related issues.
How Much Does Ear Wax Removal Cost in Ontario?
One of the most common questions we hear is, “How much does ear wax removal cost in Ontario?”
Pricing can vary depending on the clinic and the services provided.
At Archer Hearing Centre, professional ear wax removal costs $60 and includes:
- treatment for both ears;
- a thorough examination before removal;
- professional cerumen removal using the most appropriate technique; and
- follow-up appointments at no additional charge if the wax cannot be completely removed during your initial visit.
Our goal is to safely remove the blockage while ensuring you’re comfortable throughout the process.
How Do I Find Ear Wax Removal Near Me?
If you’ve been searching for “ear wax removal near me,” choosing a clinic with experienced audiologists is key.
At Archer Hearing Centre, we combine advanced training, modern equipment, and a patient-first approach.
Whether you’re experiencing muffled hearing, a blocked sensation, or simply suspect wax buildup, we’re here to help you hear comfortably again.
Can You Prevent Ear Wax Buildup?
While some people naturally produce more earwax than others, there are a few simple habits that may help reduce the risk of impaction.
Let Your Ears Clean Themselves
It might sound counterintuitive, but one of the best things you can do is let your ears clean themselves naturally.
Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into your ear canal. If wax is visible outside of the ear, wipe it off with a damp washcloth.
Wear Earbuds and Hearing Aids Properly
Earbuds, hearing aids, and earplugs can sometimes prevent wax from making its way out of the ear canal. Keeping these devices clean may help reduce wax accumulation.
It’s worth noting that while earbuds and hearing aids may worsen wax buildup, it doesn’t mean these devices are harmful; it might just mean that professional wax removal is required more frequently than if they weren’t being used.
Follow Your Audiologist’s Recommendations
If you’re prone to excessive ear wax, your audiologist may recommend occasional softening drops or routine ear cleanings to prevent future blockages.
The right approach depends on your ears, so it’s always best to follow individualized recommendations rather than relying on home remedies or unproven techniques like ear candling.
The Bottom Line
Earwax plays an important role in protecting your ears, but when it builds up or causes a blockage, it can affect your hearing, comfort, and even the performance of your hearing aids.
Fortunately, professional ear wax removal is a safe, effective solution. Rather than attempting to remove wax yourself with cotton swabs or other objects, it’s best to have your ears assessed by an audiologist who can determine the ideal removal method for your specific situation.
Professional Ear Wax Removal in Markham
Looking for professional ear cleaning in Markham?
Our licensed audiologists provide safe, professional cerumen removal using the most appropriate technique for your ears. Every appointment includes a thorough examination and personalized aftercare recommendations.
Book your visit today and experience the difference professional care can make.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Wax Removal
Does Professional Ear Wax Removal Hurt?
Professional ear wax removal is generally well tolerated, and many people just feel a bit of pressure and movement. However, if your ears are more sensitive or the buildup is stubborn, some discomfort can happen. Your audiologist will try to minimize this as much as possible.
If you experience pain during the procedure, let your audiologist know right away.
How Long Does Ear Wax Extraction Take?
Most appointments take approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the amount and consistency of the wax.
If the wax is particularly hard or impacted, your audiologist might recommend softening it with ear drops before your appointment.
How Often Should I Schedule Professional Ear Cleaning?
There isn’t a schedule that works for everyone. Many people never require professional ear cleaning, while others naturally produce enough wax to benefit from periodic removal.
If you wear hearing aids or have a history of impacted earwax, regular checkups can help identify buildup before it begins affecting your hearing or comfort.
Can Ear Wax Cause Temporary Hearing Loss?
Yes, ear wax buildup can cause temporary hearing loss. When wax completely or partially blocks the ear canal, sounds cannot travel efficiently to the eardrum. You may notice muffled hearing or a sensation that your ear is plugged.
Once the blockage is removed, hearing typically improves immediately, provided ear wax was the underlying cause.
Is Ear Wax Removal Covered by OHIP?
OHIP no longer covers ear wax removal performed by an audiologist. To make hearing healthcare accessible, professional ear wax removal costs $60 for both ears at our Markham hearing clinic.
References
- World Health Organization. (2021). World report on hearing. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/world-report-on-hearing
- Canadian Audiologist. (2026). Cerumen Management: An Often Overlooked Area of Hearing Healthcare. Canadian Audiologist, 13(4). https://canadianaudiologist.ca/cerumen-management-one-of-hearing-healthcares-neglected-services/
