Hearing Aids | Dayton, OH | Hearing Aid Styles & Types

Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC)

Hearing aids are now more sophisticated and advanced than ever before! They now come in many different shapes and sizes, offering up features and technology to help you stay connected.

Bluetooth hearing aids have become popular, allowing wearers to connect to their smartphones and other devices. Additionally, most manufacturers now offer a rechargeable option, meaning you no longer have to worry about your batteries running out at an inopportune moment.

Deciding which one is right for you may seem daunting, but that’s why we’re here to help! There is something to appeal to everyone, whether you want a small and discreet design or something compact and straightforward to manage. Here, we’ll run through the different hearing aid types you might see on the market.

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)

These fit directly into your ear canal, just like the IICs. Only a small portion of the hearing aid is visible, and the style is still more concealed than other types.

CIC hearing aids are great for people who don't want to have hearing aids visible to the outside world. They are not just good for helping keep you discreet; they are also great for those with an active lifestyle. These custom hearing aids can be placed under helmets or headbands easily, too. CIC devices provide precise amplification with virtually no interference from wind.

In-the-Canal (ITC)

ITC hearing aids are comfortable and easy to use. They fit in the lower part of the outer ear bowl. They can accommodate a broader range of hearing losses, and they have a longer battery life than IIC and CIC styles.

Their size allows other features to be included, such as directional microphones, to help them better handle challenging noise conditions. They also include manual controls, a boon for those with limited manual dexterity.

In-the-Ear (ITE)

This is the largest custom-fit style. Each ITE is made based on your ear mold and fits all components in a plastic box that then fits smoothly into the outside part of the ear. It is large enough to accommodate manual controls and is excellent for those with hearing losses ranging from mild to severe.

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)

RIC devices have the electronics in a case that fits behind the ear. In this way, they look similar to BTE devices. The difference: the sound is transmitted electronically into the ear canal via a small speaker. RIC devices are prescribed in a range of colors and are suitable for mild to severe hearing losses.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)

Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aids are hearing aids that sit outside the ear, hanging behind your outer ear. These hearing aids have advanced features and are usually the most powerful type on the market. They provide the most extensive range of features.

These aids can also house a long-lasting battery, so you don't have to worry about power loss. BTE devices are ideal for severe or profound hearing loss, and their ease of use means they are suitable for any age, from children up to older adults.

Hearing Aid Overview

Hearing Aid Styles

Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC)

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)

In-the-Canal (ITC)

In-the-Ear (ITE)

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)

Adjusting to New Hearing Aids

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Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC)

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)

In-the-Canal (ITC)

In-the-Ear (ITE)

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)