Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
General
Why should I see an Audiologist?
An Audiologist is a regulated health professional who holds a Master’s Degree and/or a Doctorate in Audiology and several clinical practicums. Audiologists perform comprehensive evaluations of auditory function on people of all ages and populations. They prescribe, fit, and dispense assistive listening devices such as hearing aids and FM systems, provide counselling and aural (re)habilitative services and evaluate and manage tinnitus and vestibular function.
An audiologist's extensive knowledge and training allow them to interpret the results of your hearing test in order to provide the perfect solution for your communication needs. To learn more about Audiologists and what they can do, please see the link below:
http://www.caslpo.com/public/public-awareness/why-use-a-regulated-health‑professional
How often should I get my hearing checked?
Similar to your physical exam, it is recommended to have your hearing tested on an annual basis in order to assess any changes that may need attention or to reprogram your hearing aids.
What are your hours of operation?
We are open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM on Monday. We are open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and we are open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Friday. We do have an occasional Saturday by appointment only. If you require any further information, feel free to contact our office.
Is there parking onsite?
Yes, there is a paid parking lot. Alternatively, there is some street parking further down Duncan Mill Road.
What methods of payment do you accept when I need to pay?
We accept all forms of payment. You can pay by cash, cheque, or credit card. We accept all major credit cards, except American Express.
What type of ear wax removal do you do?
At Toronto Audiology Associates we use three methods of wax removal which are very safe and very effective; (1) curettage, (2) endoscopic microsuction and (3) earigator flush system. Although a certain amount of earwax is necessary and healthy, it can also affect your hearing and the wearing of hearing instruments so we advise regular check-ups of both your ears and your hearing aids. Click Here for more details.
Hearing Test
What should I do if I have a sudden hearing loss?
Getting urgent attention for a sudden hearing loss is an important factor in the successful treatment of hearing loss. If you experience a sudden hearing loss, contact your family doctor, audiologist, and Otolaryngologist immediately.
Do you perform hearing tests for children? How about Auditory Processing Testing?
We complete hearing tests for patients aged six months and older. To find out more about the testing process for children, visit the Pediatric Hearing Testing section. Auditory processing testing is performed on ages 7 years and older. Contact us for more information on Auditory Processing Testing.
How long is the hearing test?
- For children, a hearing test takes less than 30 minutes.
- For adults, the appointment takes 30 minutes to 1 hour including reviewing the results with the audiologist after the hearing test and the next steps, depending on the results.
Hearing Aids
Is there any government funding for hearing aids?
Yes! Government funding is provided for every resident of Ontario with a valid health card through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP). ADP provides a government grant of $500 per ear every 5 years. Contact our office for more information about the Assistive Devices Program.
Are hearing aids covered by my insurance?
Many insurance providers offer coverage for hearing aids under the ‘Audiology’ or ‘Hearing devices’ section. You will have to contact your insurance provider directly to find out your coverage.
I think I need hearing aids, what should I do?
Call our office to book an appointment to have your hearing tested. If your hearing test shows you are a suitable candidate for hearing aids, our Audiologist will consult with you regarding your hearing loss and make a recommendation based on what may be the best fit. Contact us to find out more details about trying on a demo set of hearing aids with no obligation. We pride ourselves in offering our “Peace of Mind” package when hearing aids are purchased at our clinic for private pay patients. This includes a 30-day trial period, 3-month return policy, and a 3-year warranty including ongoing professional care, supplies, and batteries all at no charge. Contact us today to book your Hearing Aid Evaluation.
My hearing aids aren’t working, what should I do?
Try the following troubleshooting tips:
- Put a new battery into your hearing aid. To do this, remove the tab from the new battery and place it in the battery door of your hearing aid, bumpy side down. If you have rechargeable batteries, place your hearing aids in your charger and make sure they are charging properly. The light on the charger will flash green if charging properly, or red if there is a problem.
- Change the wax guard. To do this, you will need to remove the dome from the hearing aid receiver (the piece that is placed in your ear). Once you have removed the dome, you will have exposed the wax guard. Take out a new wax guard and with the empty side, push the empty part into the wax guard then pull to remove it. Turn the stick around and insert the new wax guard. Place the dome back on top and pull slightly to ensure it is sturdy.
If none of these tips work, or you are having difficulties and would like us to take a look at your hearing aids, call or email our office or feel free to stop by during our business hours.
Do I need to wear my hearing aids every day?
It is recommended you wear your hearing aids as much as possible on a daily basis. This will allow your brain to get used to the sounds you may not have heard in a while. Wearing your hearing aids as much as possible is also important to ensure your hearing needs are met.
How do I care for my hearing aids?
Proper maintenance and care can extend the lifespan of your hearing aids. Take a habit to do the following:
- Open the battery door to turn off the hearing aids when not in use
- Keep away from moisture – this can damage the hearing aid
- Clean the hearing aids on a regular basis. This means daily brushing of the hearing aid to remove any wax debris and changing the wax guard at least once a month.
- Keep hearing aids away from pets and children. Dogs especially like to chew on the hearing aids.
- Change dead batteries as soon as possible.
How can I tell the difference between the right and left hearing aid?
Right = Red and Left = Blue
On the underside of the hearing aid, there should be a red or blue marker. If you do not see one, you can look at the end of the receiver (the wire with the dome attached) to see if it is red or blue.
I have ringing in my ears, what should I do?
Talk to your family doctor about any ringing you may have in your ears. You may have tinnitus and you should see a hearing professional. Tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease, and is associated with many forms of hearing problems. It can also be a symptom of other health problems.
Tinnitus is typically caused by Hearing loss, loud noise, earwax, temporomandibular joint concerns (TMJ), head and neck injuries, Meniere’s disease, acoustic neuroma, blood vessel disorders (i.e. high blood pressure), or medication. Your doctor will recommend you get a hearing test to see if there are any hearing concerns. Based on the results of the hearing test, our Audiologist is happy to consult with you regarding strategies to manage your tinnitus.
Is there a treatment for Tinnitus?
There is no clear cure for tinnitus, however, there are ways to manage it. Our job, and indeed our focus, is to break the tinnitus cycle and give you time to recover. Using sound therapy, in combination with informed counseling and hearing aids, we can bring you significant relief. If you have any questions or want any further information, feel free to contact us. We are happy to book you for a tinnitus consultation with our Audiologist.