Hearing Aid Styles

Thankfully, people suffering from hearing ailments today have a lot more hearing aids to choose from compared to individuals in the past. As time goes on, more and more different devices are being used to uplift the lives of people with hearing loss that were unimaginable just a few decades ago. At North Shore Hearing P.C., we research these technologies to diversify the types of hearing aid styles we can offer to our patients.

Our passion for restoring hearing is unprecedented and we are determined to help treat hearing loss once and for all. If you are interested in joining our cause and are curious to find out all the different hearing devices you can use to revitalize your ears, look below to see which style suits you and your condition best.

For many years I have gone to several audiologists and tried various hearing aids, with no success, until Diane! She informed, explained, suggested, all with professional skill, caring and interest in my hearing satisfaction. She did not push for a sale. My hearing is now greatly improved. I highly recommend her to those seeking help with their diminished hearing.

Herbert H. of Wading River, NY

Custom In-the-Ear Hearing Aids

You are unique and have unique needs. Custom-made in-the-ear hearing aids (ITE) are designed, measured, and matched to your ears and needs.

Custom in-the-ear hearing aids (ITE) are a fantastic option for people who want to improve their hearing but do not want the visual attention associated with a hearing aid. There are many numerous benefits for using ITE devices, such as:

Versatility. Custom ITE will remain in place even if you’re wearing glasses or talking on the phone because they’re designed specifically for you.
Small and discreet. Custom ITEs are available in a range of styles and skin tone colors, but they all share one thing in common: they are small and discreet.
Comfortability. Due to the fact that ITEs are custom-molded devices specific to you, they are comfortable to wear and tend to not cause discomfort throughout the day.
Strong hearing loss correction. Most ITEs can treat moderately high degrees of hearing loss, making them compatible with almost everyone who is suffering from hearing ailments.
Natural wind reduction. The exterior part of your ear acts as your very own windbreaker, shielding your ears from wind noise.

Completely-In-The-Canal Hearing Aids

As the name suggests, Completely-In-The- Canal hearing aids (CIC) are made to fit completely in the user’s ear canal. CICs are a type of almost-invisible hearing aid — similar to ITEs. The only part of the CIC aid that visible is the tip of a small plastic outside the canal, which is used as a “handle” to insert and remove the instrument.

Their small size and penetration into the ear can be uncomfortable for some people or pose potential dexterity challenges, but its low visibility is great for people who don’t want to make their hearing loss obvious. CICs are great for mild to moderate hearing loss, but not recommended for extreme hearing loss.

More control. These hearing aids tend to offer volume control and buttons that change programs, which may make them suitable for those who want more control over functions.
A boost of loudness. The speaker of CIC aids is relatively close to the eardrum, which is the reason many wearers suggest they offer a boost in loudness.
Offer a natural hearing sensation. Because CIC aids sit deep in the ear, they tend to closely mimic the normal process of hearing.
Cosmetically appealing. CIC aids are almost hidden and offer more ease of mind to those concerned with the cosmetics of hearing loss.
Versatile. CIC hearing aids are recommended for those who suffer moderate to mild hearing loss.

Invisible-in-the-Canal Hearing Aids

There are several different types of hearing aids available for your use, but Invisible-in-the-Canal hearing aids are the smallest, most concealed hearing aids available. IIC devices are custom-fit for your specific ear and hearing needs. They are inserted in the second bend of the ear canal, rendering it completely invisible when worn.

To promote good ear health, there is a “handle” that allows you to remove it and clean it daily. Because the device is placed so deeply into the ear canal, it is not suitable for everyone (especially those with sensitive ears). Similar to RIC hearing aids, IICs are aimed towards individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Versatility. IIC hearing aids will remain in place even if you’re wearing glasses or talking on the phone because they’re designed specifically for you.
Small and discreet. These hearing aids are the smallest, most discreet available on the market today.
Comfortability. Due to the fact that ITEs are custom-molded devices specific to you, they are comfortable to wear and tend to not cause discomfort throughout the day.
Natural wind reduction. Because they are placed so deeply in your ear, wind noise will rarely be a factor.

Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Behind-the-Ear hearing aids (BTE) hold the hearing components that amplify sound in a protective casing that lies behind the ear. A plastic acoustical tube directs noise into an earbud or customized ear-mold that is fitted to the user inside the ear canal.

BTEs are arguably the world’s most common hearing aid and are optimal for moderate to severe hearing loss. Out of the different hearing aid styles available, this is typically the largest.

Comfortability. Since BTE aids do not sit deep in the ear, they offer more comfort for some wearers.
Best Amplification. BTE hearing aids provide the best, most robust hearing amplification.
Excellent visibility. Even though most people assume BTE hearing aids are extra visible, they are barely seen when worn because of the thin tube.
Easy to handle. If you struggle with dexterity issues, BTE hearing aids will be among the easiest to handle.

Receiver-In-The-Canal Hearing Aids

Receiver-In-The-Canal hearing aids (RIC) have the speaker inside the ear canal and are connected to the main instrument by a thin electrical wire. Typically, RICs tend to be smaller than BTEs. RICs are slender, sleek devices that are great options for mild to moderate hearing loss. A few key benefits of RIE hearing aids are:

Stylish. RIE hearing aids are available in a range of colors.
Comfort. They are light and easy to wear, which offers all-day comfort.
Reduced feedback. RIE hearing aids are much less susceptible to feedback.
Clear, natural sound quality. These hearing aids are excellent amplifying high-pitched sounds, offering you a more natural, clearer sound.

Contact North Shore Hearing P.C. for Hearing Aids

At North Shore, we know there are no one-siz-fits-all hearing aid solutions. Because of this, we provided tailored service and personalized assistance to help you find the best hearing aid for your unique needs.

Contact North Shore Hearing P.C. today to learn how we can help.