Types of Hearing Aids

Below are the basic styles of hearing aids available. We will work with you to determine which style is best for your individual hearing loss, ear shape, dexterity and goals. Every hearing aid we fit is digital, which means you will get a hearing aid programmed to fit your individual needs with room to grow should your hearing loss change. Digital hearing aids range in price because the circuits range in sophistication/processing.

Completely-in the-Canal (CIC) The smallest of the hearing aid models, this hearing aid fits deeply into the ear and can hardly be seen when worn. It has a small battery which may be difficult to manipulate for patients with hand or finger dexterity issues.

 

In-the-Canal (ITC) The plastic case extends slightly into the ear canal and has nice cosmetic appeal.

 

 

 

In-the-Ear (ITE) The plastic case extends into the ear bowl and can be seen more easily. I t has a very efficient battery size which is easy to manipulate. Because it is larger it can usually house more power and manual controls.

 

 

 

Behind-the-ear (BTE) This hearing aid fits behind your ear and sends sound into your ear canal through a plastic tube and earmold. Since the electrical components are housed and protected behind your ear, this aid is generally more durable and reliable. It can also house significant power and several optional controls.

 

Open Ear (OE) This BTE hearing aid is generally smaller than a traditional BTE and sends sound to your ear canal through a thinner almost invisible tube. It has great cosmetic appeal while being durable and reliable. In addition, an OE fitting can relieve the common complaint that the patient's voice sounds like it's in a barrel. This newest addition to the hearing aid family is growing in popularity because of its great success with high frequency hearing loss.