Hearing Aids Types at Advanced ENT of Atlanta

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Types of Hearing Aids

Behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids can be fitted with either a closed or open earmold. A closed mold allows distance between the end of the earmold and the receiver (loudspeaker) of the hearing aid, reducing the chances of feedback (whistling). The open mold is best suited to people with normal hearing in the lower frequencies and eliminates complaints of ear fullness and problems with the sound of ones own voice.

There are five main styles of hearing aids. These include:

Behind the ear (BTE) style with closed mold
A behind the ear (BTE) hearing aid is a stock item, worn with a custom made ear mold. It is appropriate for individuals with mild to profound hearing loss. Depending on the level of technology, it may be equipped with directional microphones and multiple memories to enhance understanding in difficult listening situations.

In the ear (ITE) styles
An in the ear (ITE) hearing aid is fully housed in the outer ear. It is appropriate for individuals with mild to moderately severe hearing loss. It can be fitted with directional microphones and multiple memories for enhanced speech clarity in background noise.

In the canal (ITC) styles
An in the canal (ITC) hearing aid fits in the canal portion of the outer ear. It is appropriate for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. Directional microphones and multiple memories can be added.

Completely in the canal (CIC) styles
A completely in the canal (CIC) hearing aid fits entirely in the outer ear canal and is the least conspicuous hearing aid style available. It is appropriate for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. Directional microphones cannot be added due to space limitations on the aid however multiple memories can be installed to improve speech clarity in background noise.

Over the ear (OTE) open fit style
An over the ear (OTE) open fit hearing aid is a stock instrument using an open mold or tube. A soft vented “dome” covers the end of the tube, eliminating the “plugged up” feeling some users experience with other hearing aids. It is appropriate for mild to moderate high frequency hearing loss In addition, some hearing aids may be fit with either a solid ear mold or an open mold. The ear mold is the part of the hearing aid that goes into your ear canal. The solid mold separates the receiver and microphone from the amplifier and helps to prevent feedback. The open mold is best suited to people with normal or nearly normal hearing in the lower frequencies.

Hearing Aid Fitting Process >>

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Behind the ear (BTE) style with closed mold

In the ear (ITE) styles

In the canal (ITC) styles

Completely in the canal (CIC) styles

Over the ear (OTE) open fit style