Different Types of Hearing Aids

Choosing the correct hearing aid depends on the type of hearing loss and the wearer’s preferences when it comes to comfort, appearance, and performance. Here is a look at some of the most common styles of hearing aids and how they operate.

Completely-in-the-Canal and In-the-Canal Hearing Aids

As their names imply, completely-in-the-canal (CIC) and in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are custom-molded to fit comfortably inside the wearer’s ear canal. Both CIC and ITC hearing aids help with mild to moderate hearing loss, and both are designed with low visibility in mind. CIC models are small and discreet, but they also have limits when it comes to battery life and extra features. On the other hand, ITCs are larger and only partially inside the wearer’s ear canal. Thus, they are more visible than CICS, but they can also handle extra features like volume control that CICs cannot.

In-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Custom-molded, in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids fit into the wearer’s ear in two different ways: either by filling most of the hollow region of the outer ear (known as a full shell) or by filling just the lower half of the outer ear (known as a half shell). ITE hearing aids are larger and more visible than CIC and ITC models, but this allows them to have even more features, including much better battery life.

Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids have a segment that reaches over and around the top of the ear and a small tube that connects to the earpiece, which fits inside the ear. As with CICs, ITCs, and ITEs, the earpieces in BTE hearing aids are customized to sit comfortably in the wearer’s ear. The difference is that BTEs can assist with virtually all levels of hearing loss, including that of a severe and profound degree.

Receiver-in-the-Canal Hearing Aids

Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) hearing aids also have a segment that is on top of the ear. This leads to a receiver and is placed in the ear canal, which is attached by a thin wire. They are designed to be a comfortable and very cosmetically appealing option for many patients and can help with most types of hearing loss.

Our team at Hearing Associates can help you to find the perfect style of hearing aids for your needs and preferences. To schedule an appointment, call (303) 369 1096 for our Aurora, CO location or (720) 842 1890 for our Parker, CO location.