Style
There are several different styles of hearing aids: Behind the Ear (BTE), Open fit behind the ear, In the Ear (ITE); In the Canal (ITC) and Completely in the Canal (CIC).
Behind the Ear (BTE): Target Hearing Loss is moderate to Profound
This hearing aid fits over and behind the ear. The sound from the hearing aid is delivered to the ear via a tubing and earmold. BTE hearing aids can be used to fit most hearing losses, however they are used mainly to fit severe to profound hearing losses.
Open Fit BTE: Target Hearing Loss is high frequency
This hearing aid fits over and behind the ear. The sound from the hearing aid is delivered to the ear via a tubing and earmold. BTE hearing aids can be used to fit most hearing losses, however they are used mainly to fit severe to profound hearing losses.
In the Ear (ITE): Target Hearing Loss is mild to moderately severe
This hearing aid fits in the ear and fills it up completely. ITE's are very versatile and are used to fit a variety of hearing losses from mild to severe.
In the Canal (ITC): Target Hearing Loss is mild to moderately severe
This hearing aid fits in the ear but only fills up a small part of the ear. Being smaller they have less power then BTE and ITE's. Thus they are not typically used for severe and profound hearing losses.
Completely in the Canal (CIC): Target Hearing Loss is mild to moderate
This is the smallest hearing aid available. They fit all the way into the ear canal and are virtually invisible to others. Due to their small size they are the least powerful and not suited to all hearing losses and patient needs.
When choosing a style of hearing aid there are several factors to consider. First is the degree and nature of the hearing loss. Second is the need to match the power to the style of hearing aid. Cosmetic appeal and manual dexterity are also important considerations when choosing a hearing aid. We will help you choose the appropriate style of hearing aid to suit your individual needs.
