There are 5 types of modern hearing aids. Each class of devices has unique benefits to help suit your lifestyle and maximize your satisfaction with the devices that you choose. For more details of what will work best for you call your hearing instrument practitioner.
Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC)
CIC/IIC The smallest most discrete hearing aids ever made. Introduced in 1994 these tiny hearing aids offer the absolutely best cosmetic advantages. They are custom made to comfortably fit your ear and are available in all technology levels.
In-the-Canal (ITC)
ITC’s were introduced in 1983 and soared to popularity when President Ronald Reagan was binaurally fit in 1984, the In the Canal has been an excellent choice for many people ever since. It is small, works great and easy to use. Also available in all technology levels.
In-the-Ear (ITE)
ITE hearing aids provide a good easy to use power house that holds all the components in one easy to use package. ITE’s can be available with effective directional microphones depending on your ear shape and size. ITE’s are also available in all technology levels.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids offer excellent durability and performance. This is the hearing aid that rests comfortably behind your ear and has enough size to house all the best options. As it does not sit inside your ear it is not as exposed to body heat, moisture and cerumen. It does have a comfortable mold which directs the sound towards your eardrum. BTE’s are available in all technology levels and compatible with most accessories including telecoil.
Open-Fit BTE
RIC/Open fit. Introduced in 1999 this type of fitting is an excellent choice for many people who are new to hearing aids. Lightweight and discrete it uses a miniature tube or wire to efficiently place the sound very close to your eardrum. The best advantage of this type is that for some hearing losses it offers the normal perception of one’s own voice. Also available in all technology levels and compatible with most accessories.
