 |
Styles of Hearing Instruments
There are four main styles of hearing aids commonly used today. Each style offers different advantages, depending on the design, size and technology.
 |
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)
The smallest hearing aid available, the CIC fits deeply inside the ear canal, making it almost invisible. Benefits include cosmetic appeal, more natural sound, reduced feedback, less occlusion ("talking in a barrel" effect), improved telephone use and decreased wind noise. CICs are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
|
 |
In-the-canal (ITC)
ITC hearing aids are custom-made to fit almost entirely inside the ear canal, making them difficult to notice. ITCs are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
|
 |
Half Shell (ITE)
Half shells are custom-made to fit securely in your outer ear, ensuring optimum performance and maximum comfort. Half shells are suitable for mild to severe hearing losses.
|
 |
Full Shell (ITE)
Full shells are also custom-made to fit securely in your outer ear. They are larger in size than the half shell and are suitable for mild to severe hearing losses. |
 |
Slim Tube Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
A small BTE hearing aid attaches to a thin tube which directs sound into the ear. This "open" type of fitting is very comfortable and discreet. It is suitable for mild to moderate high-frequency hearing losses. |
 |
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
BTEs are worn comfortably behind the ear while amplified sound travels down a tube to a customized earmold that fits securely into the ear. Because they are larger, BTEs can accommodate bigger batteries for longer life and larger amplifiers for maximum amplification. Most BTEs are compatible with assistive listening devices. BTEs are suitable for mild to profound hearing losses. |
|
|
