Top Hearing Aid Styles to Consider

Typically hearing aids come in two different types but a variety of different styles and finding the right style for you will depend on the degree of hearing loss, lifestyle choices, cosmetic concerns, and personal preferences. To give you a bit more information on the types of aids available, utilize this guide to learn more. It is important to remember; however, that when determining the right hearing aid for you, it is always best done in conjunction with your hearing instrument specialist (HIS), who will be able to recommend the most suitable hearing aid for your needs. 

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids

BTE devices sit behind or on top of the outer ear. They work by connecting tubing to a custom-fit earmold or dome that sits in the ear. This type of aid will come with changeable or rechargeable batteries and can come in a variety of colors.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids

ITE hearing aids are worn in the outer ear bowl, providing you with a more open feel but something still worn near the canal. Your audiologist will take an impression of your ear at the time of your hearing consultation, which will be used to make the aids. As a result, ITE devices are usually custom-fit. Commonly, these types of hearing aids will be available in a variety of different skin tones so that they can blend in with the out ear. 

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid

This type of hearing aid will sit in the opening of the ear canal. ITC hearing aids can be used for varying degrees of hearing loss. They are less discreet than other canal varieties but will benefit from longer battery life and additional features such as volume adjustment. Given the way that these devices sit, they can make wearers feel ‘plugged’ and could become more susceptible to wax or moisture damage than other varieties. 

Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids

Similar to ITC hearing aids, CIC devices rest in the canal, just slightly further to provide even greater privacy. To the naked eye, they will appear virtually invisible as they are placed deeply in the ears. They are small in size and do not come with easily accessible controls, making them slightly more finicky to deal with. However, this type of aid can offer up a good sound quality because of how they fit in the ear and are generally recommended for people with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. 

Professional Hearing Aid Service is here to walk you through all parts of the hearing aid treatment process. Call our office for more information at 202-785-8704!