Ear Wax Removal

Clear blocked ears and hear better with safe, gentle ear wax removal from Johnson Audiology’s expert audiologists.

Blocked ears, muffled hearing, or a feeling of fullness may be signs of excessive earwax buildup. While it might be tempting to treat it at home, improper removal can lead to more discomfort—or even damage. At Johnson Audiology, we offer safe, professional ear wax removal services to help you hear more clearly and comfortably. Our experienced team serves patients across Chattanooga, Hixson, Franklin, Murfreesboro, TN, and Cartersville, GA, using gentle techniques and specialized tools to remove wax without risk. If you're experiencing ear discomfort, let us help you find relief the right way.

Ear wax—also known as cerumen—is a natural and essential part of your body’s defense system. It helps trap dust, debris, and microorganisms before they reach your inner ear. Most of the time, your ears are self-cleaning, and wax exits the canal on its own.

However, sometimes wax accumulates faster than it can be cleared, leading to blockages that interfere with hearing, balance, and comfort.

What Causes Ear Wax Buildup?

A number of factors can contribute to excessive or impacted ear wax, including:

• Overuse of cotton swabs or ear candles (which can push wax deeper)
• Use of hearing aids or earbuds, which can trap wax inside
• Naturally narrow or curved ear canals
• Skin conditions like eczema or dry skin
• Aging, which may change wax consistency and slow natural movement
• Humidity or hot weather, which can increase wax production

While some people may rarely need wax removal, others may require it on a regular basis.

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time to schedule an ear cleaning with an audiologist:

• Sudden or gradual hearing loss
• Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or roaring sounds)
• Earache or discomfort
• Itchiness or drainage

In many cases, ear wax impaction causes conductive hearing loss—a blockage that prevents sound from reaching the inner ear.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Ear Cleaning

You’ve probably heard the old advice about using cotton swabs to clean your ears. Unfortunately, that method often does more harm than good.

Using cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects can:

• Push wax deeper into the ear canal, worsening the blockage
• Cause scratches, infections, or even a ruptured eardrum
• Lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss

If you’re experiencing symptoms of ear wax buildup, the safest choice is to consult a professional.

At Johnson Audiology, we offer professional ear wax removal services using tools that are safe, precise, and designed for clinical use. Your audiologist will first inspect your ears to determine whether wax is the cause of your symptoms. If necessary, we will remove the wax using techniques such as:

• Irrigation: Gently flushing the ear canal with warm water
• Manual removal: Using curettes or suction under direct visualization
• Softening agents: To help loosen and safely extract hard wax buildup

Unlike over-the-counter kits or home remedies, our methods ensure safe ear wax removal with minimal risk of damaging the ear canal or eardrum.

Whether you’re dealing with new symptoms or regularly struggle with wax buildup, our audiologists are trained in gentle, effective ear cleaning techniques that preserve the integrity of your hearing and comfort. We also provide full hearing assessments to ensure that ear wax isn’t masking other underlying issues. If wax impaction is the primary cause, your hearing may be restored immediately following removal.

Schedule a Professional Ear Cleaning Today

Don’t let wax buildup interfere with your hearing or comfort. Johnson Audiology proudly offers ear wax removal services at our offices in Chattanooga, Hixson, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Cartersville. Request an appointment today to get the relief—and clarity—you deserve.

FAQs About Ear Wax Removal

Is ear wax removal safe?

Yes—when done by a professional, ear wax removal is safe and effective. At Johnson Audiology, our audiologists use specialized tools to gently and safely remove ear wax without damaging your ear canal or eardrum. Avoiding DIY methods like cotton swabs is crucial, as they can push wax deeper and cause injury.

How do I know if I have ear wax buildup?

Common signs of ear wax buildup or impaction include:

• Muffled or reduced hearing
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Ear pain or itchiness
• Sudden hearing changes in one ear

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, a professional evaluation is recommended.

Can I use cotton swabs to clean my ears?

No. Cotton swabs can be harmful and are not recommended for ear cleaning. They often push wax deeper into the ear canal, increasing the risk of impaction and potentially damaging the eardrum. The safest and most effective method is professional ear wax removal.

What causes excessive ear wax?

Some people naturally produce more ear wax than others. Contributing factors can include:

• Use of hearing aids, earbuds, or earplugs
• Narrow or curved ear canals
• Skin conditions like eczema
• Over-cleaning with cotton swabs
• Aging or changes in ear wax consistency
• Environmental factors like heat and humidity can also increase wax production.
  

Can ear wax affect my hearing?

Yes. Excessive or impacted ear wax is a leading cause of conductive hearing loss, which occurs when sound cannot travel through the ear canal effectively. In many cases, professional removal can quickly restore hearing and relieve symptoms like tinnitus.

How often should I get my ears cleaned?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people may never need professional cleaning, while others—especially those who wear hearing aids or produce excess wax—may benefit from routine cleanings every 6–12 months. Your audiologist can recommend the best schedule for your ears.

Still have a question?