Styles of hearing aids
Individuals of all ages can experience hearing loss, leading to different needs with hearing devices. The two common categories of styles are in-the-ear and behind-the-ear hearing aids.
Nearly Invisible Styles
Wearers can choose from aids that are hardly visible to others. Invisible in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aids are among the most discreet and smallest options for hearing aids, with the other options being completely in-the-canal (CIC) devices. The IIC and CIC styles are ideal for those experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Since the IIC and CIC hearing aids sit inside the ear, the sound quality isn’t interrupted. Devices this small are custom fit, but the small size can have dexterity challenges. Devices inside the ear are also susceptible to moisture damage and ear wax.
In-the-Canal Hearing Aids (ITC)
An ITC device isn’t as small as the CIC and IIC styles, but because they fit into the lower portion of the outer ear bowl, they are easy to use and comfortable to wear. As a larger device, the ITC addresses a wider range of hearing loss and has a longer-lasting battery.
Advantages and Disadvantages
An ITC could feature directional microphones and manual volume control. The ITC is still discreet but has similar concerns with moisture damage and wax buildup. Some wearers complain of occlusion with this style.
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Devices (BTE)
There are a few styles of BTEs hearing aids. One style uses an earmold to follow the contour of the wearer’s ear, and because of its size, can feature more battery power and control. Children often benefit from a BTE with earmold because it’s easily replaced and quickly reprogrammed when needed.
A receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) device, which is also known as a receiver in canal, is one of the most popular styles of hearing aids. These are open-fit hearing aids with a speaker built into an ear dome rather than the body of the device. The speaker sits in the ear canal while a small wire connects the processor and microphone to a case behind the ear.
Advantages and Disadvantages
BTE and RITE have above-average sound quality, options for wireless connectivity, artificial intelligence and rechargeable batteries. The case sitting behind the ear is visible, while the interior speaker can get damaged by moisture and ear wax.
Choosing the Right Hearing Aids
Trying to narrow down your choices of hearing aids can be a complicated process. At HEAR Center, we can answer your questions about listening devices and provide free consultations. Contact us to find out more about your options or to schedule a hearing screening.
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/hearing-aids/types-hearing-aids
https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing-aids
https://www.healthyhearing.com/help/hearing-aids/types
HEAR Center
HEAR Center was founded in 1954 by Dr. Ciwa Griffiths, who did groundbreaking work in the assessment and treatment of hearing loss in infants and children. This non-profit organization is dedicated to providing affordable hearing and speech services to all who need it through community outreach, innovation and collaboration. Schedule a consultation with HEAR Center today.
HEAR Center offers audiological evaluations, hearing aids, speech and language services, and more to California residents.
Call or text: (626) 734-6555
Email us at: appointments@hearcenter.org